The campaign for radon safety continues in Hope.
After a successful round of offering radon kits to citizens last November, the District of Hope is now requesting all completed kits be dropped off at District Hall this week.
From Monday (April 8) to Friday (12), 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the District of Hope is accepting all radon kit drop-offs at their office.
“This effort is critical in ensuring the safety and well-being of our community members against the risks associated with radon exposure,” said Gurvinder Sodhi, the district’s communications and system analysis advisor.
On Nov. 28, kits were being given away by the district to Hope locals. Residents were also encouraged to register with the district, so that an accurate number on radon levels in the area could be taken.
According to FVRD, particularly concerning results were found in Hope and FVRD Electoral Area H. Eighteen homes, from those areas, tested in the 200 to 600 Bq/m3 range, with two homes in Electoral Area H going over the 600-mark.
“If high radon levels in your home are detected, you may want to speak with a radon mitigation professional about how to lower the radon in your home,” FVRD’s web page info recommends.
Agencies responsible for radon-related concerns include The BC Ministry of Health and the BC Centre for Disease Control. However FVRD officials including board director Chris Kloot has been advocating for significantly more tests to be made available. B.C. citizens, such as Jill Hall from Chilliwack, have also been strong advocates for radon testing.
Radon is an odourless, colourless, radioactive gas, that is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. It originates from the breakdown of soil and plants, and gets into people’s homes through cracks in the foundation and other entries.
Everyone is encouraged to learn about the level of radon gas exposure in their homes by setting up a radon test kit. Residents can buy a test online, at takeactiononradon.ca/provinces/british-columbia, or borrow one from the Fraser Valley Regional Library.
READ MORE: Cancer-stricken Realtor calls on Fraser Health to protect public from radon
@KemoneMoodley
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