In a move to combat a silent killer, the City's Health Department is distributing 400 free radon test kits during Radon Action Month to encourage residents to check their homes for the cancer-causing gas. Radon, an invisible and odorless hazard, is the number one cause of lung cancer among non-smokers, claiming nearly 21,000 lives in the U.S. annually. Every single home should undergo testing, especially in Minnesota, where two out of five homes have demonstrated high radon levels, as reported by the Minneapolis City of Lakes.

With the state's average radon concentration sitting at more than triple the national figure, winter provides a prime testing season as homes are sealed tight to keep the heat in. Residents of Minneapolis who lack email or internet access are encouraged to dial 311 to snag a kit, according to Minneapolis City of Lakes.

"Radon can affect any home or building and can be deadly with long-term exposure," stated Alex Vollmer, the Minneapolis Health Department’s Lead and Healthy Homes manager. "We care about everyone in our community, that’s why we are passionate about radon education and are encouraging everyone to test their homes for radon," Vollmer affirmed, as per Minneapolis City of Lakes.