The Washington School District will be testing for radon in some of its buildings. Radon is a radioactive gas that naturally comes from the ground and can seep into buildings through cracks and holes in foundations. The colorless, odorless gas comes from the decay of uranium and can be breathed in and trapped in your lungs, leading to damage and potentially cancer. If detected, it can be mitigated.

Superintendent Willie Stone announced that next week radon levels will be tested at the middle school and high school buildings. He says that districts are only required to test preschool rooms every two years. Stone states that doing the tests across the district is essential to make sure all of the buildings are safe for students and staff.

Last year’s results showed that at the bus barn, home school assistance program building, Stewart and Lincoln Elementary buildings the levels were all below the advised action level and were found to be safe.