A scheme enabling members of the public to borrow digital radon monitors through their local library in Waterford to check radon levels in their homes, including in both Tallow and Lismore, has been launched by the Mayor of Waterford City and County, Seamus Ryan.
A Healthy Ireland at Your Library initiative, supported by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the new Radon Monitor Loan Scheme in Waterford libraries looks to raise awareness of radon and promote proactive health measures.
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can accumulate indoors. It is the second leading cause of lung cancer in Ireland after smoking. Through the scheme, library users can borrow a digital radon monitor, just like a book for three weeks, and this will give a good indication of radon levels in the home. While this does not replace the recommended three-month test, the monitors offer a valuable first step in identifying potential radon issues.
Radon monitors will soon be available in 9 of the library branches around Waterford county, in Tallow, Lismore, Dungarvan, Ardkeen, Carrickphierish, Tramore, Portlaw, Central and Brown’s Road Libraries.
“We are delighted to be able to provide this new service of radon monitor lending in nine of our public libraries in Waterford”, said Mary Conway, Waterford City and County Librarian. “This is particularly important to the community that we serve as the South-East has high radon levels, and this initiative will help make homes safer and support public health”.
While Patrick Byrne EPA Director said: “Radon is a serious public health hazard but there are clear steps we can take to reduce it in our homes. Making radon monitors available through libraries provides an easy, accessible way to help people get an indication of levels in their home. Borrow a monitor, use it at home for three weeks and get a quick indication of radon levels in your home’.
You can visit www.radon.ie to get further information on testing your home and reducing high levels to keep you and your family safe.
