January is considered an optimal time to conduct radon tests in your home or business.
The Environmental Protection Agency has decided to designate January as national Radon Action Month. Radon is an odorless, colorless gas that can lead to numerous health problems.
The Indiana American Lung Association’s Manager of Lung Health Margaret Brewster says methods are available to detect radon, and winter is the perfect time to ensure accuracy.
“You’re not getting as much fresh air into your home so that’s when the radon starts to build up and that’s why it’s so important to test during the winter months to see what an accurate level is in the home while it’s closed-up,” says Brewster.
Radon is considered the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. behind tobacco use. The EPA estimates that radon leads to 20-thousand deaths each year.
The American Lung Association says they can supply individuals with radon testing kits for a small fee. A laboratory can also provide an analysis of the area tested once the materials are sent back.
Brewster says conducting the radon test can provide peace of mind.
“We know what the map looks like in Indiana for radon. Indiana is high, and moderately high for radon,” says Brewster. “So there’s really not a place you can escape it, radon is everywhere. My suggestion would be to get a radon kit, be educated on what radon is, what steps you can take to reduce radon in your home, and test for it.”
Indiana is considered to have high levels of radon in the state. Brewster says homebuyers are particularly encouraged to get educated on radon levels.
Mitigation systems are available for homeowners interested in reducing their exposure.
