WASHINGTON (Jan. 4, 2024) – Each January, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recognizes National Radon Action Month to protect public health. This year, the agency is highlighting the importance of home radon testing as a vital step to protect families’ health and prevent harmful impacts like lung cancer. Radon, a colorless and odorless radioactive gas, can build up inside a home if left untreated and pose serious health risks. The best way to know if radon is present in your home and to protect your health is to test for it.
“Radon is a serious public health risk. Fortunately, there are easy steps you can take to protect your family and ensure that the air you breathe at home is healthy,” said EPA Deputy Administrator Janet McCabe. “Testing for radon is easy and inexpensive and I encourage everyone to test, fix, and save a life during this year’s Radon Action Month.”
Deputy Administrator McCabe further emphasized this call to action in a video, spreading the word about the importance of radon testing. Affordable do-it-yourself radon test kits are available online and at most home improvement and hardware stores. Some states and municipalities even provide at-home radon test kits for free. You can also hire a qualified radon professional to test your home. Contact your state or Tribal radon program to learn more about radon services in your area.
Radon remains a prominent health hazard in the United States, with millions of residences exhibiting elevated levels. As the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers, radon accounts for approximately 21,000 lung cancer deaths annually. Despite its severity, many remain unaware of radon and its potential health implications.
If you haven’t tested your home for radon, National Radon Action Month is the perfect time to take this step to protect yourself and your loved ones. Tens of millions of homes have already been tested, and millions of homes with high radon levels have been fixed.
EPA recommends taking action to fix your home if you discover radon levels above 4 picocuries per liter. If your home does have elevated levels of radon, a qualified professional can install a system to lower your indoor radon levels. For more guidance on how to address radon risks, see EPA’s radon website.
Test. Fix. Save a life.
Read frequent questions about radon.
Home Buyer’s and Seller’s Guide to Radon.
Contact: EPA Press Office (press@epa.gov)