January Is Radon Action Month
Get The Radon Facts
Radon: The Silent Danger in Your Home
January is Radon Action Month, the perfect time to check if your home is safe from radon; a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that naturally occurs from the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. Radon is also one of the leading yet lesser-known causes of lung cancer. Unfortunately, radon can seep into homes and commercial buildings, exposing occupants to high levels of radon over time. This invisible threat can put your home and loved ones at risk.
Why Radon Testing Is Essential?
Radon testing is the only way to determine if your home or business is exposed to elevated levels of this dangerous gas. According to the EPA, 1 in 15 U.S. homes have radon levels exceeding the recommended action level of 4.0 pCi/L. The EPA recommends considering mitigation for levels of 2.0 pCi/L or higher. In areas known for naturally high radon levels, such as Colorado, Pennsylvania, Iowa, and North Dakota, the risk is even higher. Whether you’re a homeowner or a business owner, a simple radon test can give you peace of mind or alert you to a serious health hazard.
Did you know?
Radon Mitigation: Protecting Health and Reducing Risk
When testing reveals high levels of radon gas, radon mitigation systems can be installed to lower the concentration to safe levels. These systems work by venting radon from beneath your home or building, preventing it from accumulating inside. The process is efficient and easy, but more importantly, it dramatically reduces the risk of lung cancer and other health related complications for those living or working in the space.
10 Must-Know Facts About
Radon for a Safer Home
Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that seeps into homes from the ground. It’s a silent threat because the only way to know it’s there is through testing.
Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers and the second overall cause, following smoking. Prolonged exposure significantly raises the risk of developing lung cancer.
No, testing is easy and affordable. You can buy DIY radon test kits from home improvement stores or hire a certified professional.
The EPA recommends considering taking action if your levels are between 2.0-4.0, while the WHO advises action at a lower level of 2.7 pCi/L to better protect health. Even at lower levels, radon can pose risks, so reducing it as much as possible is a smart choice.
The best proven way to reduce radon levels is by installing a radon mitigation system from a certified professional.
Yes, a radon mitigation system, like sub-slab depressurization, safely vents radon from your home, providing lasting protection.
Yes, any home can have radon, regardless of its age or location. Testing is essential for both new and older homes, as radon levels can change.
Yes, retesting ensures the system is working effectively. Annual checks can help maintain long-term safety.
Yes, radon levels often rise in winter when homes are sealed. Testing in different seasons, including spring and fall when HVAC systems are off, provides a clearer picture of year-round exposure.
The EPA, state radon programs, and certified radon professionals offer valuable resources to help you stay informed and safe from radon exposure.
Act Now: Why Radon Demands Immediate Attention
January is Radon Action Month – the perfect time to raise awareness about the hidden danger of radon exposure and its link to lung cancer. While lung cancer is well-known, many people are unaware that radon is a leading cause, especially in states with high natural radon levels. Simple steps like testing and mitigation can make a big difference in preventing this serious health risk in homes and businesses.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Schedule a professional radon test today and take the first step toward protecting your health and the health of those around you. Learn more about radon and protect your home with resources from radon.org.
