Radon tests are available at OTC Public Health locations

Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, is the leading environmental cause of cancer deaths in the United States and the primary cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. 

Each year, more than 21,000 lung cancer deaths in the U.S. are attributed to radon exposure. Alarmingly, about 2 in 5 homes in Minnesota have elevated radon levels. Otter Tail County Public Health urges residents to test their homes for radon to ensure their families’ safety.

Testing: Easy, Affordable, and Essential

Testing for radon is simple, inexpensive, and can be done in just a few minutes. Winter is the ideal time for testing, as doors and windows are typically closed, creating the most accurate conditions.

Radon test kits are available at the Otter Tail County Public Health offices in Fergus Falls and New York Mills during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., the city offices in Battle Lake and Parkers Prairie, and Pelican Rapids. Residents are encouraged to call ahead for availability.

Homeowners can order test kits directly from the Minnesota Department of Health at www.mn.gov/radon. These kits come with easy-to-follow instructions. Once the test is completed, it is mailed to Air Check, a certified radon testing company, in a postage-paid envelope. Results are sent to the homeowner via email at no additional cost.

Understanding Test Results and Next Steps

Radon levels are measured in picocuries per liter (pCi/L). If your home’s radon level is 4 pCi/L or higher, the Minnesota Department of Health recommends verification testing and considering installing a radon mitigation system. A list of certified radon mitigation professionals is available at www.health.state.mn.us/radon.

For additional information on radon testing and mitigation, visit www.ottertailcounty.gov/radon or health.state.mn.us/radon.

Act today to protect your family from the dangers of radon. Testing is the first step to ensuring a safer, healthier home.