Homeowners can test for radon with kits

The American Lung Association of Maryland is offering two "do-it-yourself" home radon-testing kits to Maryland homeowners.

A short-term kit sells for $12 plus tax and a long-term kit sells for $22. With the short-term kit, homeowners test their indoor air with a sampler for four to seven days, then mail the materials for laboratory analysis. The long-term kit provides the opportunity to test indoor air for three months to a year, allowing for a more accurate reading. Kits may be purchased by check, Visa or MasterCard.

Radon is a colorless, odorless and tasteless radioactive gas caused by the decay of uranium, which is present in most rock and soil. It enters buildings through cracks in walls of foundations and is found in all types of homes. The only way to detect the presence of radon is to test for it.

Information: 1-800 LUNG-USA or 410-560-0829.