The Strathcona Regional District has released the results of a regional radon testing project, and most homes that took part recorded low radon levels.

During the winter of 2024–2025, the SRD partnered with Take Action on Radon as part of the National 100 Radon Test Kit Challenge.

A total of 117 homes across the region volunteered to participate, including homes in Zeballos, Tahsis, Oyster River and Campbell River.

According to the results, 96-percent of homes tested measured below 100 becquerels per cubic metre.

Two percent measured between 100 and 200, and another 2-percent tested above Health Canada’s guideline of 200 becquerels per cubic metre.

The highest reading recorded was 214.

Breaking it down by postal code, 23 homes were tested in the V0P area with two percent exceeding the federal guideline. In the V9H area, 43 homes were tested, and none exceeded the guideline.

In the V9W area, 41 homes participated, also with no readings above the guideline.

While the overall results are considered encouraging, the SRD says radon levels can vary significantly from one building to another, even between neighbouring homes, making individual testing important.

SRD Board Chair Mark Baker says the results are reassuring, but testing is still the only way for residents to know their home’s radon level and protect their family’s long-term health.

Radon is a naturally occurring, colourless and odourless radioactive gas that can build up indoors. Long-term exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking, and the leading cause among non-smokers.

The Canadian Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists recommends testing homes every three to five years. Funding for the project was provided by Health Canada.

Find out what this means and how to test your own home at Strathcona Regional District.

Information on radon testing is available at Government of Canada.

An interactive map of radon levels across British Columbia is available at BC Radon Map.