Did yinz know that January is National Radon Action Month? Did you further know that the EPA recommends that folks test their abodes for the cancer-causing gas? Indeed.
Here’s what you need to know: Radon is an odorless, colorless, naturally occurring radioactive gas that, when left unaddressed, can build up inside a home. Over time, exposure to radon can cause lung cancer. The only way to know if your home has high levels of radon is to test for it.
During this year's National Radon Action Month, GASP joins the EPA in urging everyone to take the first but vital step of testing their home.
This year's theme of 'Test Your Nest: Test, Fix, Save a Life,' emphasizes that identifying and reducing radon exposure can decrease lung cancer risk and save lives.
Good news is, testing for radon is easy and inexpensive. Affordable do-it-yourself radon test kits are available for purchase online and at most home improvement and hardware stores. Some states and municipalities even provide at-home radon test kits for free. You can also hire a qualified radon professional to test your home.
Millions of homes in the United States have elevated levels of radon. Radon is the number one cause of lung cancer among non-smokers and is responsible for about 21,000 lung cancer deaths every year, but many people don't know about radon or the risks it can pose to their health.
The EPA recommends taking action to fix your home if you discover radon levels above 4 picocuries per liter. If your home does have elevated levels of radon, a qualified professional can install a system to lower your indoor radon levels. For more guidance on how to address radon risks, see EPA's radon website.
Editor’s Note: Want to learn more about your indoor air quality? Check out this FREE air quality monitoring program offered by our friends at ROCIS.