Radon
Statewide radon hazard awareness and public information activities are conducted by the Radiation Control Program through a sub-grant with the University of Nevada, Reno Extension.
Radon Program
The University of Nevada, Reno Extension provides public information and outreach regarding radon health effects, testing, and mitigation. Available information is in the form of informational pamphlets, presentations to interested groups, response to telephone inquiries, and demonstration booths at various public venues. The Nevada Radiation Control Program provides technical support to the University of Nevada, Reno Extension and public inquiries.
Radon is an odorless, tasteless, invisible radioactive gas that is naturally occurring in all rock and soil types. Radon is considered by the US Environmental Protection Agency, the US Surgeon General, and the American Lung Association to be the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the United States.
Radon can enter a building through the foundation and increase in concentration in the indoor air. All buildings have a potential for elevated radon concentrations if there is contact with the soil, including mobile homes if the home has skirting.
Elevated radon concentrations have been discovered in Nevada homes and it is recommended that all homes be tested for radon. Elevated radon concentrations are easy to test for and relatively easy to reduce or eliminate. Screening test kits are available commercially for no more than $10 to $30.
The goal of Division radon awareness activities is to provide appropriate factual information to facilitate informed decisions by the public regarding their own health and safety. These efforts are also intended to encourage individuals to test their homes, as testing is the only means of determining if elevated radon concentrations exist.
For More Information
For additional information on radon, use the following website links:
Contact Information
Contact the University of Nevada, Reno Extension at (775) 336-0252 or (775) 336-0254 for more information.