Elko County proclaims January 2026 National Radon Action Month; free test kits offered

The Elko County Commission on Jan. 21 approved a proclamation declaring January 2026 National Radon Action Month in Elko County and announced free radon test kits available at county pickup locations.

Commissioner Kerr read the proclamation describing radon as a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that increases lung-cancer risk and noted the county would partner with the University of Nevada, Reno Extension and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on outreach and testing. Commissioner Kerr moved to adopt the proclamation; the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote.

Jill Tingey, extension educator with the University of Nevada, Reno Extension, told the commission the test kit is small and easy to use and advised homeowners to repeat a test if initial results are elevated. She said the county will provide both short-term test kits and longer-term digital radon meters for checkout and listed a local pickup point at the extension office, 701 Walnut Street in Elko, plus 30 statewide locations where kits will be distributed through late February.

Why it matters: Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers and can vary widely between adjacent homes; testing is the only way to detect elevated levels. The proclamation aims to raise awareness and direct residents toward testing and mitigation resources.

What’s next: The county will post mitigation resources and a list of certified mitigators on its website and continue outreach through extension programming and partner agencies.