From District Health Department #4

CHEBOYGAN COUNTY – January is National Radon Action Month. Do you know your number?

Radon exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer next to smoking. In homes where cigarette smoking occurs, the risks will significantly increase. Radon is found in soil and rock and is an odorless, colorless, radioactive gas, which leaks into homes through cracks or openings in basement walls, ground floors and crawl spaces.

Short-term radon charcoal test kits for the reduced cost of $5 (1 per household) will only be available Jan. 22-26 at District Health Department #4 offices.

Measuring the radon levels in households can significantly reduce the risk of lung cancer for families. Testing for radon is easy and inexpensive, and homes with elevated levels can be fixed.

District Health Department #4 recommends that all homes be tested. Testing your home is the only way to know if you and your family are at risk from radon since there are no warning signs or symptoms from exposure. The United States Environmental Protection Agency estimates 1 out of 15 homes in the U.S. have elevated radon levels.

Radon kits are available year-round for $15. Long-term radon kits can be purchased for $45.

For more information contact your local health department.