Three things you can do during National Radon Action Month

January is Radon Action Month, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) have tips for you.

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that you cannot see, smell, or taste.  There are no short-term side effects that could cause alarm or warn of its presence. Long-term exposure to radon increases the risk of developing lung cancer, which accounts for more deaths in both men and women than any other form of cancer in the United States.

1. Test your home – EPA, U.S. Surgeon General and EGLE recommend that all homes in the U.S. be tested for radon. Testing is easy and inexpensive.
• Almost all counties have radon test kits available from EGLE.
• To find out if radon test kits are available near you, contact EGLE’s local health department partners.
2. Attend a National Radon Action Month event in your area – EGLE staffers will be at the Grand Rapids Remodeling & New Homes Show (Jan. 10-12) and the Lansing Home & Gardens Show (March 13-16) to answer your radon questions.
3. Spend time during National Radon Action Month encouraging others to learn about radon and test their homes.
• Tell your family and friends about the health risk of radon. Encourage them to test their homes.
• View EGLE’s radon resources on its Indoor Radon Program.

During January, Radon Action Month, EGLE highlights its radon program, which aims to:

• increase awareness of health risks associated with elevated indoor radon levels,
• promote home testing, and
• encourage citizens to take action to reduce exposure once elevated radon levels are found.