January is National Radon Action Month. But what is radon? Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas. It’s naturally occurring, and you can’t see, smell, or taste it. It’s created when uranium in the soil, rocks, or water breaks down.
Want to know more? Here are some facts about radon.
- Radon can cause cancer. It is thought to be the second leading cause of lung cancer, and the first leading cause in people who have never smoked.
- Radon seeps into homes through exposed dirt. This often happens in the lower levels of homes, such as the basement or other rooms in direct contact with the ground.
- Radon exposure from drinking well water is low, but it can increase the amount of radon in the air.
- Radon levels will be higher in the winter and lower in the summer. It’s best to test your home during fair weather.
Do you want to know if you’re at risk? Are you interested in testing your home for radon? You can order an inexpensive test kit from the Virginia Department of Health. You can also view the EPA’s Radon Risk Map for Virginia.
Would you like even more information? Visit VDH’s frequently asked question page.