The American Lung Association in Illinois and Illinois Emergency Management Agency Radon Program along with Ecology Action Center, Respiratory Health Association of Metropolitan Chicago, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 want to spread the word about the dangers of radon gas.

Radon is a colorless, odorless, tasteless, radioactive gas that causes lung cancer. The Surgeon General lists radon as the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, and it is also the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers.

Fifty percent of Illinois counties are considered at high risk, and the Kane County Health Department is joining the organizations mentioned above in seeking new and creative methods of informing the public.

To increase radon awareness, the organizations are hosting the second-annual statewide radon video contest.

“We are calling on Illinois high school students and classes to create a one-minute Public Service Announcement or commercial that will increase public awareness of radon gas and encourage people to test their homes.

The deadline for entering the contest is March 4. Wouldn’t it be great if someone from Kane County is chosen as the winner? The third place winner of the 2014 Contest  was Marmion Academy!  CLICK HERE to view their video

For more info on how to enter the contest, check out the contest website here or scroll down on this page.

And watch this really cool video of previous winners.