January is Radon Action Month: Protect Your Home and Health

Radon—a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas—might be lurking in your home without your knowledge. As the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. (after smoking), this naturally occurring radioactive gas poses a serious health risk, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

What is Radon and How Does It Enter Your Home?

Radon is found in nearly all soils, created from the natural breakdown of uranium. It rises through the soil into the air and can seep into homes through:

  • Cracks in foundations
  • Gaps around pipes
  • Building materials
  • Water supplies

Once indoors, radon can accumulate to dangerous levels, increasing the risk of lung cancer for you and your family.

Testing for Radon: An Easy First Step

Fortunately, testing your home for radon is simple and affordable. You can purchase radon test kits:

  • Online
  • At home improvement stores
  • From the National Radon Program Services (sosradon.org) at a discount

Two types of tests are available:

  1. Short-term tests: Monitor radon levels for 2–90 days.
  2. Long-term tests: Measure radon over 90 days for a more accurate year-round average.

Radon levels are measured in picocuries per liter (pCi/L) of air. While low levels are typical, the EPA recommends action for results between 2 and 4 pCi/L.

Steps to Mitigate Radon

If testing reveals elevated radon levels, here are some steps you can take:

  • Increase ventilation by opening windows and using fans.
  • Seal foundation cracks with caulk or plaster designed to block radon.
  • Retest your home to confirm lower levels.

For homes with levels exceeding 4 pCi/L, consider a professional radon mitigation system. Licensed specialists can install systems that effectively reduce radon levels. Contact your state radon office (sosradon.org/state-radon-contact-map) to find a trusted expert.

Act Now for Peace of Mind

Radon may be invisible, but its risks are clear. Make January the month to test your home, take action, and protect your loved ones from this silent threat.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. 


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