The San Francisco Public Library has introduced a new program to promote home safety by offering free radon detector loans.

The initiative encourages residents to test their homes for radioactive gas and is part of a partnership between the San Francisco Public Library and the California Department of Public Health.

The program is important because radon is an odorless, tasteless radioactive gas that often goes undetected by human senses and is a leading cause of cancer. Similar to using a library card to check out a book, residents can check out radon detectors free of charge. Residents can use the detectors for 21 days and return them at a book drop after use.

Terry Carlson, technical services manager with the library, discussed the goals behind the library’s new radon detector loan program and how the initiative aims to promote home safety across San Francisco.

Partnering with the state

When asked what inspired the launch of the radon lending program, Carlson said, “Radon detectors are something we’ve never offered before, and this program allows us to expand access to an important health resource at no cost to the community.”

A Consumer’s Guide to Radon Reduction published by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency offers useful information for homeowners. (EPA.gov)

Carlson also explained that this new partnership with the California Department of Public Health developed after a conversation with Dale Parks, the state radon officer and senior environmental scientist at the state agency’s Indoor Radon Program, who reached out to the library.

Carlson said, “There is already a high demand. We currently have 48 holds on the detectors, and we believe the interest will continue to rise as people learn about radon.”

If a radon detector detects high levels of radon, residents should contact the California Department of Public Health Indoor Radon Program at 1-800-745-7236 or by email to address the issue and ensure their homes are safe.

On Aug. 17, the library will welcome Parks, the state radon officer, to present “Radon and Your Health.” The presentation will explain the health risks associated with radon and discuss steps, strategies and costs involved in addressing the concern.

A recent UC Berkeley graduate in English literature and political economy, Katie is interested in environmental reporting, local politics, arts and culture, and the ways public policy shapes communities. After writing for The Daily Californian, producing news coverage at KALX Radio, and reporting on climate and sustainability issues for EARTHDAY.ORG, she is eager to continue building her reporting experience.