Burlington County Freeholder Director Bruce Garganio announced Aug 8 that the Burlington County Health Department is offering free radon test kits to homeowners.
“The Burlington County Health Department is working with The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection to bring increased awareness to the public on the risks of radon,” said Freeholder Director Bruce Garganio.
“Radon is an odorless and colorless gas that can cause lung cancer,” added Garganio. “According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers and is responsible for about 21,000 lung cancer deaths every year. About 2,900 of these deaths occur among people who have never smoked.”
“There are three areas in Burlington County that have been identified as having high radon potential locations: Washington Twp., Mansfield Twp. and Chesterfield Twp.,” explained Garganio. “While these areas are our focus, residents in other municipalities in Burlington County are eligible to receive a free kit.”
The New Jersey Radon Potential Map represents radon testing data that is received monthly by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection from all certified radon measurement businesses. The map is designed to show the potential for elevated radon concentrations in each municipality.
Residents can view the map here: http://www.njradon.org/radonin.htm
“The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection recommends that all homes be tested for radon. With these kits, homeowners can easily test for radon themselves. This is something I encourage all residents to take advantage of,” concluded Garganio.
For additional information or to receive a free kit call the Health Department at (609) 265–5548.
