City of Aspen Takes Action Against Radon: Free Tests Offered Throughout National Radon Action Month

January marks National Radon Action Month, and the City of Aspen's Environmental Health and Sustainability department is proactively addressing the potential threat of radon gas in local homes. In an effort to encourage residents to safeguard their homes and loved ones, the city is offering free radon tests, available throughout the year.

Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas resulting from the decay of uranium found in rocks and soils, can seep into homes through cracks in floors, posing serious health risks. In Colorado, about 50% of homes have been found to have elevated radon levels, and due to geological conditions, homes in the state tend to exhibit higher radon levels than the national average.

To determine if your home has elevated radon levels, the only way is to conduct a radon test. Residents in Aspen can request their free radon test kit by emailing [email protected], calling (970) 920-5039, or picking one up at City Hall located at 427 Rio Grande Place, in the community development office on the first floor. Free test kits can also be ordered online at official website.

Radon is responsible for more than 20,000 lung cancer deaths in the United States each year and is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. When radon gas decays into radioactive particles, inhalation of these particles can damage DNA in sensitive lung cells, leading to the development of cancer.

To assist residents in identifying areas with high radon levels in the City of Aspen, an interactive map has been provided at official map link.

For more information, residents can contact Julie Kline, environmental health specialist, at (970) 920-5069 or [email protected], or Carolyn Sackariason, communications coordinator, at (970) 319-2791 or [email protected]. Take advantage of this initiative to ensure the safety of your home and loved ones by testing for radon during National Radon Action Month.