Average Radon Level In South Dakota: 9.6 pCi/L

The EPA advises that any home or building in South Dakota with radon levels at or exceeding 4.0 pCi/L should undergo mitigation. Additionally, the World Health Organization (WHO) sets a lower threshold, recommending action for radon concentrations of 2.7 pCi/L or above.

• EPA's Action Level: 4.0 pCi/L
• WHO's Action Level: 2.7 pCi/L
• Average Level In South Dakota: 9.6 pCi/L

Living or working in areas with elevated radon levels can pose significant health risks. The only reliable method to ascertain the radon concentration in your specific home or building is through radon testing. This is a crucial step in ensuring your environment is safe and adheres to recommended health standards.

Understanding Radon in South Dakota

Radon in South Dakota is a significant health concern that often goes unnoticed due to its colorless and odorless nature. This naturally occurring radioactive gas is prevalent in the state, with many areas showing high radon levels in South Dakota. It seeps into homes and buildings from the soil and can accumulate to dangerous levels if not properly mitigated. Understanding the risks and taking appropriate action is crucial for the health and safety of South Dakota residents.

The Health Risks For Radon in South Dakota

Exposure to high levels of radon poses serious health risks. In fact, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, following smoking. In South Dakota, these risks are particularly high due to the state’s geology. Here are some key points to consider:

• Long-term exposure to radon can lead to lung cancer, even in non-smokers.
• Radon levels in South Dakota are higher than the national average, increasing the risk for residents.
• Testing for radon is the only way to know if your home is affected, as the gas is invisible and odorless.

Radon Levels in South Dakota

South Dakota is one of the states in the U.S. with high levels of radon. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can cause lung cancer. It is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, making it difficult to detect without proper testing. Here is some information about radon levels in South Dakota:

Radon Levels in South Dakota Homes

• According to the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, approximately 50% of homes in South Dakota have radon levels above the EPA’s action level of 4 pCi/L.
• The average indoor radon level in South Dakota is 6.4 pCi/L, which is significantly higher than the national average of 1.3 pCi/L.
• Every county in South Dakota is in Zone 1, which means they have a predicted average indoor radon screening level greater than 4 pCi/L.

Radon Testing and Mitigation in South Dakota

• The South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources encourages all homeowners to test their homes for radon, especially those in high-risk areas.
• Radon test kits are available at local hardware stores, online, or through county extension offices.
• If a home tests high for radon, mitigation systems can be installed to reduce the radon levels. These systems can reduce radon levels by up to 99%.

Radon and Health Risks in South Dakota

• Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, after smoking. The risk of lung cancer increases with higher levels of radon and longer exposure times.
• It is estimated that radon causes about 21,000 lung cancer deaths per year in the U.S., and a significant number of these deaths occur in high radon areas like South Dakota.

In conclusion, radon is a serious health risk in South Dakota. Homeowners are encouraged to test their homes and take necessary actions if high levels of radon are detected.

Additional Resources About Radon Levels In South Dakota