What it takes: Radon
EPA places 65 of Kansas's 105 counties in Zone 1, its highest radon-potential category, and none in the lowest zone. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer. A home test is the only way to know your level.
Kansas
High-radon soil, hard summer heat and ticks in the grass.
Most Kansas counties have high radon potential, and summers bring long runs of heat on open ground. Lone star and American dog ticks live in the grasslands and woods.
What it takes and what to do
What it takes: Summer heat
Kansas summers bring stretches of very hot days with little shade on open land. Farm, ranch and construction work in that heat can bring on heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
What to do about Summer heat
Stay safe in the heatAs neededOn hot days, drink water often, take breaks in the shade and plan hard work for the cooler parts of the day. Drink water through the dayDailyKeep a water bottle within reach and sip through the day instead of waiting until you are thirsty. Rehydrate when you sweatAs neededDrink regularly during hot work or long workouts, and add electrolytes when you sweat for more than two hours.What it takes: Ticks
Lone star ticks, widespread in the Midwest and South, spread ehrlichiosis and are linked to alpha-gal syndrome, a red-meat allergy. American dog ticks, common east of the Rockies, can carry Rocky Mountain spotted fever.