November 5, 2007

In Sunday night's episode of "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," a Cheyenne, Wyoming, home was demolished due to a radon problem that supposedly couldn't be fixed. While homes in Michigan should be tested for radon to determine if there is a problem, elevated radon levels do not require homeowners to go to such "extreme" measures to keep their families safe.

Some homes can be fixed by simply caulking and sealing radon entry points, while others will require a simple vent system that can be installed by a trained contractor, generally for no more than $800 to $1,500, including warranty.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States and the leading cause among nonsmokers. Radon is not linked to other respiratory problems, however, such as asthma or bronchitis.

Test kits for radon are readily available from local health departments and can also be found in some retail stores, with the typical price ranging from $10 to $30.

For more information about radon, visit http://www.michigan.gov/deqradon, or call the DEQ's Radon Program at 1-800-RADON GAS (1-800-723-6642) for a free packet of information.

Editor's note: DEQ news releases are available on the department's Internet home page at www.michigan.gov/deq.

"Protecting Michigan's Environment, Ensuring Michigan's Future"