Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas found in almost any kind of soil or rock. It generally travels upward through the soil and moves out to the atmosphere where it is quickly diluted. But if it runs into a barrier such as the foundation floor or walls of a building, it can enter the building through cracks, sump openings, crawlspaces or other penetrations caused by plumbing, wiring or ductwork. It tends to be more concentrated in the indoor environment and can accumulate to unhealthy levels. Radon is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, according to the federal government.
Kits are now available in at least one local health department office in every county.
Many local departments will be observing Radon Action Week with a variety of activities. Testing is easy and inexpensive. It is the only way to know whether the home has a radon problem. If you want to email the Governor click Governor on the navbar, then click Contact the Governor in the Governor sidebar and fill out the form. If you should have any questions or comments regarding this website, click Home on the top banner, then click Contact the Web Site Coordinator in the Home sidebar and fill out the form.