The Town of Innisfail has completed a radon gas test for residents of the town.
Twenty-seven homes participated in the testing for radon gas during the winter of 2023. The participants used a 91-day alpha track test. This test represented approximately 1% of the community dwellings.
As a result, 15% of the homes tested were above Canada's guideline of 200 Bq/m³
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that comes from the ground. Exposure to elevated levels of radon is linked to increased chances of developing lung cancer.
Since radon levels fluctuate over time, testing with a long-term test (of at least 91 days) provides a better estimate of your annual radon exposure. Many digital detectors are available to purchase or to borrow for shorter test durations, but we still recommend testing for at least 91 days. If you borrow a digital monitor for a shorter test, consider following up with a long-term test.
A radon mitigation system is installed with a fan that draws air (and radon) up from beneath the foundation and discharges the radon to the outdoors where is disperses the radon to low levels. This system reduces radon levels by preventing radon from entering your home.
If you missed your chance to test you can click here for more information.