CHILDREN ENCOURAGED TO ENTER DELAWARE RADON POSTER CONTEST

The Delaware Division of Public Health's (DPH) Radon Program invites all Delaware children ages 9-13 (on April 1, 2012) to submit their artwork for the 2012 Delaware Radon Poster Contest. The annual contest highlights the risks posed by indoor exposure to radon, raises awareness for radon testing and informs Delaware residents of the danger of radon in their homes. Entries will be accepted until March 31, 2012, with the top three winners selected in April. Each of the three winners will receive an Apple iPod® Shuffle courtesy of Comcast Spotlight.

"This is a great opportunity to build community support for radon risk-reduction through a fun and educational activity," said Dr. Karyl Rattay, DPH Director. "Through participation in the Delaware Radon Poster Contest, we help our community understand the danger of radon and the need to test our homes."

The top three entries are automatically entered in the National Radon Contest in October, 2012. The winner of the national poster contest, along with a parent and sponsor, will receive an all-expense paid trip to Washington, D.C., to attend the national award ceremony in January 2013.

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can enter homes through cracks and openings. It is the leading cause of lung cancer for non-smokers. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that radon causes nearly 20,000 deaths from lung cancer annually in the United States. A two-minute video about radon, entry form, and contest rules are available on-line for viewing and download at www.delawarehealthyhomes.org.

Radon test kits are available at most hardware stores. To find out if you qualify for a free radon test kit, while supplies last, contact the DPH radon office at (302)744-4546 or call 1-800-464-HELP (4357). Information about radon is available at www.delawarehealthyhomes.org.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.