January is Radon Action Month
Test Homes for Radon During January National Radon Action Month
You can’t see, smell or taste radon, but it could be present at a dangerous level in your home. January is Radon Action Month and Oakland County Health Division is urging residents to protect their health by testing their homes for radon.
Radon is a naturally occurring, invisible, odorless gas that is usually harmless outdoors. When radon is trapped under a building, it can work its way in through cracks and crevices and accumulate to levels that can be harmful to human health. Exposure to elevated radon levels does not cause any physical signs or symptoms.
It is the second leading cause of lung cancer among people nationwide. In Michigan alone, 600 new cases of lung cancer are estimated to be caused by radon each year.
The only way to know if your home is affected is to test it. The best time to test your home for radon is during the cooler months when the windows and doors are closed.
Oakland County Health Division is offering radon test kits for only $5 each throughout January 2012. Radon test kits are available at both Oakland County Health Division offices:
- Pontiac – 1200 North Telegraph, Building 34E
- Southfield – 27725 Greenfield Road
If high levels of radon are found in your home, steps can be taken to reduce these levels. For more information, go to www.oakgov.com/health/how_do_
Information provided by Oakland County Health Division.