Radon levels are high in Central New York

January is National Radon Action Month. Here's what you need to know. The objectives of Radon Action Month are to raise public awareness of the dangers of radon exposure, encourage radon testing in homes, and take action to fix the problem.

Like Carbon Monoxide, Radon cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted. Radon may be present in your home at a harmful level. About 21,000 Americans every year lose their lives to lung cancer, with radon being the main culprit among non-smokers in the country. The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) and the U.S. Surgeon General urge everyone to create mitigation plans to protect their health by continuously monitoring indoor air quality. 

The air we breathe contains microscopic radioactive particles, produced by radon, that can damage your lungs. These particles generate tiny energy bursts as they degrade. Throughout your lifetime, this can lead to lung cancer, especially in smokers and ex-smokers.

Today, indoor air quality has become a hot topic.  More and more people are working from home, or homeschooling, creating concern about the air they breathe. Radon, a carcinogen, is a major health concern that is easily addressed. Government health agencies advise that all homes, schools, and other facilities be tested for radon to safeguard occupant health. Radon exposure is preventable.

The first step to understanding your risk is to test your home. These test kits can be purchased at home improvement stores, online retailers, NY State health offices, or local radon companies.  Professional testing is encouraged by a licensed radon specialist.  Testing helps avoid unnecessary exposure, which poses a potential health risk at high levels. Once you are aware of what levels you have in your home, reach out for professional help from your local radon mitigation experts. Health authorities have proved that a standard radon mitigation system can help reduce radon levels immediately after installation.  This creates a healthier indoor living environment for homeowners and their loved ones.