Westmoreland County Libraries Now Offer Free Radon Testing Kits to Combat Invisible Health Threat

An invisible threat is lurking in homes across our region, and Westmoreland County Libraries are now providing a powerful new tool to fight back.

Free radon testing kits are now available for residents, offering a simple way to detect a dangerous, cancer-causing gas.

Pennsylvania is known for having some of the highest radon concentrations in the nation, a direct result of our state's geology.

This is not a distant problem; data shows that over 40% of homes in Westmoreland County have radon levels above the recommended action level set by federal health officials.

In a pioneering move, the county library system has partnered with Airthings, a Norwegian tech company, to stock forty digital radon testing kits across its 26 locations.

The program makes Westmoreland County a leader in public health access in the United States.

Diana Falk, director of the Norwin Public Library, expressed pride in the network’s innovative step.

She explained the process is designed for maximum ease, stating the kits will be cataloged and checked out just like any book or movie.

Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that can seep into homes through cracks in the foundation and walls.

Exposure to this gas is the second-leading cause of lung cancer, surpassed only by smoking.

This initiative is especially timely, as questions about radon often arise during home sales in Westmoreland County's active real estate market.

The library lending model provides an accessible, no-cost solution for homeowners concerned about their indoor air quality.

Each kit includes an Airthings Corentium Home digital device, along with instructions and educational materials to help families understand their risk.

This is a crucial service for community health, empowering residents to take control of their home environment and protect their loved ones.

Officials hope the program ensures that everyone, regardless of location within the county, has equal access to this vital health screening tool.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is radon and why is it a concern in Westmoreland County?

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is the second-leading cause of lung cancer. Pennsylvania's geology contributes to elevated levels, and Westmoreland County homes have shown average levels significantly higher than the EPA's recommended action threshold, making testing for indoor air quality essential.

How can I borrow a free radon testing kit?

Residents can request one of the forty digital radon testing kits from any of the 26 Westmoreland County Libraries locations. The kits are checked out with a library card, just like a book, for a set lending period to monitor your home's radon levels.