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Free Radon Test Kits Available in Branford & Old Saybrook

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. est-kits-available-in-branford-old-saybrook.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Tuesday, February 10th 2026 at 10:51 GMT by Patch
      Locales: Connecticut, UNITED STATES

Branford & Old Saybrook, CT - February 10, 2026 - The East Shore Health District (ESHD) is proactively addressing a serious, yet often overlooked, health risk by offering free radon air test kits to residents. This initiative aims to raise awareness about radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, and empower homeowners to take preventative measures against its potentially deadly effects.

Radon is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas produced by the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It can seep into homes through cracks in foundations, gaps around pipes, and other openings. While naturally present in the environment, elevated levels of radon can accumulate indoors, posing a significant health threat.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, responsible for an estimated 21,000 deaths each year. It's a particularly concerning issue because lung cancer is often diagnosed at a late stage, making treatment more difficult. Crucially, radon exposure is preventable.

"Many people are unaware of the dangers of radon, and that's why we're making these test kits available," explains Dr. Amelia Hayes, Director of Environmental Health at the ESHD. "Testing is the only way to know if you have a radon problem in your home. It's a simple process that can provide peace of mind or, if levels are high, allow you to take action to protect your family."

The EPA recommends testing all homes, but particularly those constructed before 2000. Older homes tend to have more cracks and openings in their foundations, providing easier access for radon gas. However, even newer homes can be affected depending on the geological composition of the surrounding land.

The ESHD's free test kits are a short-term test, typically lasting between 2 and 7 days. Residents simply place the kit in a designated area of their home - ideally the lowest lived-in level - and then mail it to a certified laboratory for analysis. Results are typically returned within a few weeks.

What do the results mean?

The EPA action level for radon is 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L). If your test results are at or above this level, mitigation is recommended. Radon mitigation systems, installed by qualified contractors, can effectively reduce radon levels by venting the gas from beneath the foundation and releasing it safely outdoors.

Beyond the Basics: Understanding Radon Risk Factors

While all homes are potentially at risk, certain factors can increase the likelihood of elevated radon levels. These include:

• Geological Location: Areas with uranium-rich soil or rock, such as parts of New England and the Appalachian Mountains, tend to have higher radon concentrations.
• Foundation Type: Homes with basements or crawl spaces are more susceptible to radon entry.
• Construction Materials: Certain building materials can release radon.
• Water Supply: Private well water can sometimes contain radon.

Expanding on Prevention and Mitigation

Beyond testing and mitigation, residents can take several steps to reduce radon exposure. Sealing cracks and openings in foundations, installing vapor barriers, and improving ventilation can all help. The EPA website ([ https://www.epa.gov/radon ]) provides detailed information on these strategies.

Residents of Branford and Old Saybrook can obtain a free test kit at the East Shore Health District office located at 99 Dixwell Ave. in Branford, or at the Old Saybrook Town Hall at 303 Main St. in Old Saybrook. Kits can also be requested by mail by calling 203-488-8347. The ESHD urges residents to take advantage of this free resource and prioritize their family's health.

"Don't wait until it's too late," Dr. Hayes emphasizes. "Radon is a silent killer, but with awareness and action, we can significantly reduce the risk."

The East Shore Health District is committed to protecting the health and well-being of its residents and encourages everyone to learn more about radon and take steps to ensure a safe and healthy home environment.