Radon Action Month

 

January is National Radon Action Month. The purpose of National Radon Action Month is to raise public awareness about the dangers of radon, encourage radon testing and mitigation, and promote the implementation of radon-resistant construction techniques. Radon is a gas that is colorless, tasteless, and odorless. It enters homes and other buildings as a result of the decay of uranium found in the soil.

 

 

 

Radon is the primary cause of lung cancer in non-smokers, leading to over 20,000 deaths annually. Nebraska has a notably high prevalence of radon in residential properties. Over half of the homes tested in the state have levels exceeding 4.0 pCi/L. It is important for every home to be tested for radon.

 

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) advises that homes be tested for radon every 2 years. Understanding what defines safe radon levels is essential for homeowners. By following EPA guidelines, individuals can make informed decisions about when to adopt radon reduction measures. This improves the health and safety of their families and homes.

Homes are more at risk for radon when:

 

• They are closer to the ground, such as basements or underground mines.
• They are poorly ventilated.
• They are very tightly sealed.
• They have closed windows during winter, reducing ventilation.
• Their source of water supply is groundwater.

 

 

The Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department offers free home test kits to community members in one of the nine counties we serve. Contact us at (308)-345-4223 or stop by our McCook or Ogallala office for more information on how to get a FREE radon test kit. Home test kits can also be found at Radon.com.

 

 

 

For more information on radon testing and mitigation call Hunter York at 308-345-4223.