January Is Radon Action Month

Radon is an invisible, odorless, and tasteless gas that comes from uranium deposits in rocks, soil, and ground water. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer next to smoking and is responsible for 15,000-21,000 deaths per year. It’s important to have your home tested before your health is affected.

Testing for radon is inexpensive and easy. EPA recommends that a short-term test (two to 90 days) is done. If the result is 4 pCi/L or higher, it is recommended to follow-up with a long-term test or another short-term test. If the results are 4pCi/L or higher, your home needs to be fixed before anyone’s health is harmed.

Radon can enter your home in many ways including cracks in flooring, brick and concrete, well water, mortar between concrete blocks, floor to wall joints, sump pumps, and gaps around pipes. In order to fix these issues, you should hire a contractor who is trained to fix radon problems.

West Virginia has all three levels for radon zones. Regardless of what zone you live in, your home should be tested. Homes with high levels of radon have been found in all zones. For a free radon test kit, visit www.wvdhhr.org/rita/radon.asp.