Kenosha Reporter

Kenosha County Public Health is providing $5 radon test kits during January, recognized as Radon Action Month, in exchange for a nonperishable food donation. This initiative aims to raise awareness about radon, an odorless and radioactive gas that is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, responsible for approximately 20,000 deaths annually.

Mark Melotik, Environmental Manager with Kenosha County Public Health, emphasized the importance of testing: “The only way to know you have it in your home is to test, and our Radon Action Month promotion offers the opportunity to do that while also helping people in need in the community.”

The offer limits one kit per person, with all donations directed to local food pantries. Testing services are available through the Kenosha/Walworth Radon Information Center, supported by a grant from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. After January, test kits will be priced at $20.

Each kit includes a vial that must remain open in the lowest livable level of a home for 48 to 96 hours before being sent to Accustar Labs for analysis. Results are typically provided within three days via mail, email or telephone. The shipping and analysis costs are covered.

Residents whose homes show elevated radon levels are encouraged to contact Kenosha County Public Health for guidance on mitigation options.

Test kits can be obtained from Monday through Friday at two locations: the Kenosha County Public Health Clinic at 8600 Sheridan Road or the Department of Public Works at highways 45 and 50 in Bristol.

Further details about the Radon Information Center can be found online.