The Burlington County Health Department announced on Mar. 18 that it is distributing free radon test kits to county homeowners in an effort to help residents check their homes for the radioactive gas.
The initiative, which provides about 100 kits, is a partnership between Burlington County and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. The goal is to raise awareness about radon exposure and support local families in reducing health risks associated with the gas.
“Radon is an odorless and colorless gas that can pose a serious health risk,” said Burlington County Health Department Director Dr. Holly Funkhouser Cucuzzella. “According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking and is estimated to be responsible for about 21,000 deaths each year, including a significant number of people who have never smoked. Testing the air in your home is a simple way to protect yourself and your loved ones from this potential hazard.”
Radon forms naturally when uranium and radium break down in soil and rock formations, then moves through soil into homes via cracks or openings around pumps, pipes, and drains. In New Jersey, nearly 10% of tests meet or exceed the Environmental Protection Agency’s action level for radon concentration. The average indoor level across the United States is lower than this threshold.
The free home test kits are available while supplies last by contacting Burlington County’s Environmental Health Coordinator at 609-265-3739. If high levels are detected, the Health Department can advise on mitigation steps using certified professionals regulated by state law. Typical mitigation systems use vent pipes and fans similar in cost to other home repairs.
Burlington County Commissioner Randy Brolo said, “A significant number of homes are likely to have levels above the acceptable limits so it’s important that we test as many places as possible to detect the danger.”
Burlington County covers 827 square miles as New Jersey’s largest county by area according to its official website. The county operates under a Board of County Commissioners with five at-large members and includes three cities, six boroughs, and thirty-one townships according to its official website. Residents can also access resources such as Historic Smithville Park—a 312-acre site—and services like the Burlington County Library System designed for learning and personal development according to its official website. The county also recognizes community contributions through programs like Outstanding Women of Burlington County awards according to its official website.
More information about radon testing can be found online at www.njradon.org or by calling the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s radon program at 800-648-0394.
