The Christian County Extension Office partnered with the University of Kentucky College of Nursing and the Pennyrile Area Development District to help more people test their homes for radon. So far, 46 residents have utilized the free test kits. This effort shows how local partnerships can tackle big health risks.

Radon is a natural gas that can’t be seen, smelled, or tasted—but it’s dangerous. It’s the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. The geology of Christian County puts residents at higher risk. Many don’t know their homes may have high radon levels. The only way to know is to test.

Christian County became the first county in Kentucky to offer free radon test kits through its Extension Office. Staff also worked to spread the word—through radio interviews, social media, and newsletters—making testing easy and accessible.

The Kentucky Radon Program plans to expand it to other county Extension offices over the next five years. Meanwhile, Hopkinsville Community College will start training students to fix homes with high radon levels.