Radon Awareness

Radon is a cancer causing radioactive gas. You can't see, smell or taste radon, but it may be a problem in your home. The surgeon general warns that radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer deaths. If you smoke and have a home with high radon levels you are at a high risk for lung cancer.

Testing for radon is the only way to know if you and your family are at risk for radon. The test is free and most homes with a radon problem can be fixed for about the same cost of common home repairs.

Measuring radon levels in your own home is simple and inexpensive. Set-up only takes a few minutes. Test kits include complete instructions and return postage for mailing back to the analysis lab.

Short-term detectors (such as charcoal canisters) are used for two to seven days. They provide quick screening measurements indicating potential radon problems. Short-term detectors should be placed in the lowest livable level of the house, preferably during the winter.

Long-term detectors (such as alpha track detectors) are left in place for three months to one year. They provide the advantage of averaging seasonal variations associated with radon levels. Long-term detectors are generally placed in main living areas.

The NHHSS Radon Program has coupons available to Nebraska residents to purchase radon test kits at a reduced rate. With the coupons, a short-term test costs $6.50, and a long-term test costs $17.95. Normally, short-term tests cost $10-15, and long-term tests cost $20-30.

A free information packet is also available to residents who request it.

If you would like to receive an information packet and/or coupons to purchase test kits, e-mail your name, mailing address, and phone number to michael.benjamin@hhss.state.ne.ustate.ne.us.


For more information about Radon click on the link below.
Radon Links

Questions and request for information can be directed to:

Nebraska Dept of Health and Human Services Regulations and Licensure Radon Program
301 Centennial Mall South
Lincoln, NE 68509-5007
(402)471-0594 or (800) 334-9491
FAX (402) 471-5007