Free home test kits available during National Radon Action Month

Many Carson City residents are not aware that deadly radon gas is common throughout the region, and that homes in the 89703 ZIP code area are particularly vulnerable due to their location along the granite-ridden Sierra Nevada range.

Radon, a radioactive, colorless, odorless and tasteless gas, occurs naturally in most rocks and soils. It is produced by the breakdown of uranium in soil, rocks or water, according to the University of Nevada Cooperative Extension.

It is harmlessly dispersed in outdoor air, but when trapped in buildings, it can build up, increasing the risk of lung cancer.

Joanne Skelly, educator for the Carson City/Storey County Extension Office, told the Carson City Board of Supervisors on Thursday that radon is the leading cause of lung cancer for nonsmokers in the United States. For smokers, it's the second leading cause.

Elevated levels of radon have been found more than one-third of the Carson City homes that have been tested, Skelly said.

During January, National Radon Action Month, free radon test kits are being distributed at the extension office, 2621 Northgate Lane #15.

If a homeowner finds that a radon gas problem needs to be corrected, there are generally two methods: one for a slab foundation, which costs around $1,500, and another for homes with crawl spaces, which could cost around $3,000.

There are only a few certified radon mitigators in Nevada right now, but the extension office has contact information.

The Environmental Protection Agency recommends testing every two years, or after an earthquake or home remodeling, since new gas escape routes can be opened in the ground.

Also on Thursday, supervisors:

• Awarded a contract for $1.5 million to Nelson Electric Co., Inc. for a solar photovoltaic project at the city's Wastewater Treatment Plant.

• Accepted a recommendation designating the Seely Loop in Mills Park as the permanent location for the 9/11 World Trade Center Memorial.

• Presented a proclamation for Catholic Schools Week in Carson City, Jan. 29-Feb. 4.

• Presented the remaining two Redevelopment Authority Citizens Committee Miracle Worker awards to Comma Coffee and Carrington Co.

• Recognized the contributions to the city by the Bureau of Land Management, Sierra Front District, Friends of the Silver Saddle Ranch and the U.S. Forest Service Carson Ranger District.

• Accepted the annual activity report for administrative citations issued.

• Appointed supervisors to various boards, committees and commissions.

• Heard an update and status report for 2011-12 board goals.

• Authorized the city to enroll in the E-Verify system by providing the city's electronic signature for employment verifications.

Acting as the Redevelopment Authority, officials:

• Augmented the authority's budget by $2.4 million.