Understanding Radon Action Month: Protecting Your Home from the Silent Killer

January is Radon Action Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the dangers of radon gas and encouraging homeowners to take action to protect their families. Radon is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless radioactive gas that naturally occurs from the decay of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It can seep into homes through cracks and openings in the foundation, posing serious health risks.

Why Radon Action Month is Important

Radon is often referred to as “the silent killer” because it is undetectable without specialized testing and can accumulate to dangerous levels inside homes. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, responsible for about 21,000 deaths annually. Smokers are at an even higher risk when exposed to radon.

Raising awareness during Radon Action Month is crucial because it encourages homeowners to test their homes for radon and take necessary mitigation steps if high levels are detected. Early detection and mitigation can significantly reduce the risk of lung cancer.

Steps Homeowners Should Take

1. Test Your Home for Radon: The first step in protecting your home is to test for radon. You can purchase a radon test kit from a hardware store or online, or hire a professional to conduct the test. The EPA recommends testing all homes below the third floor.
2. Understand the Results: Radon levels are measured in picocuries per liter (pCi/L). The EPA recommends taking action if your home’s radon level is 4 pCi/L or higher. Even levels between 2 and 4 pCi/L can pose a risk and should be considered for mitigation.
3. Mitigate High Radon Levels: If your test results show high radon levels, it’s important to take action. Radon mitigation systems can effectively reduce radon levels in your home. These systems typically involve venting radon from beneath the house to the outside, preventing it from entering your living spaces.
4. Seal Cracks and Openings: Sealing cracks and openings in your home’s foundation can help reduce radon entry. While this alone may not be sufficient to lower high radon levels, it can be an important part of a comprehensive mitigation strategy.
5. Retest After Mitigation: After installing a radon mitigation system, retest your home to ensure that radon levels have been reduced to a safe level. Regular retesting every few years is also recommended to ensure continued safety.
6. Stay Informed and Spread Awareness: Educate yourself and others about the dangers of radon and the importance of testing and mitigation. Share information with friends, family, and neighbors to help protect more homes from this silent killer.

By taking these steps during Radon Action Month, you can help ensure that your home is safe from the dangers of radon gas. Protecting your family from this invisible threat is a vital part of maintaining a healthy living environment. For more information about radon gas, please visit Erickson Foundation Solutions.