Mitchell County Public Health & Home Health Promotes Community Safety with Free Radon Test Kits and Free Narcan (Naloxone)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Mitchell County Public Health & Home Health Promotes Community Safety with Free Radon Test Kits and Free Narcan (Naloxone)
Mitchell County Public Health & Home Health is pleased to announce two important initiatives aimed at protecting the health and safety of our community: free radon test kits and free Narcan (naloxone), both available at no cost and with no judgment.
Free Radon Test Kits Available
Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that occurs naturally from the breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. It can seep into homes and buildings through cracks in foundations and other openings. Long-term exposure to radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, and the leading cause among non-smokers. Cancer in Iowa continues to be a serious and growing concern. Our state has the second- highest rate of new cancer cases in the entire county, and unlike most states, our rates are still rising.
Because radon cannot be seen or smelled, testing is the only way to know your level of exposure.
Free radon test kits are available at the following locations:
- Mitchell County Public Health & Home Health
- Mitchell County Environmental Health
- Any public library in Mitchell County
- Mitchell County Auditor’s Office
Testing your home is a simple step that can significantly reduce health risks for you and your family.
Free Narcan (Naloxone) – No Cost, No Judgment
Mitchell County Public Health & Home Health also offers free Narcan (naloxone) to anyone in the county. Narcan is a nasal spray medication that can reverse an opioid overdose and save a life.
There is no cost, no appointment required, and no judgment; just support, safety, and care. Anyone may stop by Mitchell County Public Health to pick up free Narcan.
You may ask yourself, “Why would I need Narcan?”
- Overdoses are a public health issue, not just an individual one
- Narcan is safe and has no effect if opioids are not present
- Time matters, a quick response can save a life
- Narcan empowers everyday people to help in an emergency
Even people who do not use illicit drugs may encounter or be at risk for an opioid overdose in situations such as:
- Prescription opioid use, including after surgery or taking more than prescribed
- Mixing medications or substances, such as opioids with alcohol or sedatives
- Accidental exposure, including children or older adults
- Helping others, such as family members, friends, or community members
- Unknown substances, which may be contaminated without the user’s knowledge
You do not have to use drugs to need Narcan. You simply have to be near other people. Carrying Narcan is a simple, compassionate step, much like carrying a first aid kit or knowing how to call 911, it can help protect family, friends, and the wider community.
For more information, please contact Mitchell County Public Health & Home Health at 641-832-3500 or stop by during regular business hours.
Posted January 15, 2026
