Learn Why Testing For Radon Can Keep Your Home Safe This Winter

This Patch article is sponsored by the Connecticut Department of Public Health.

The Connecticut Department of Public Health wants residents to learn more about the benefits of testing their homes for radon this winter, and the methods for removing the odorless gas if it’s found.

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas found in rock, soil and water that can’t be smelled, tasted or seen. Radon is very common throughout the state of Connecticut. While radon in our outdoor environment poses a relatively low risk to human health, radon can enter homes from the surrounding soil and become a health hazard inside.

Since radon is invisible with no smell associated with it, homeowners often don’t know when this gas is in their homes. Hence, testing for radon and reducing elevated levels is so important. It saves lives.

Patch had a chance to talk with the Connecticut Department of Public Health.

Patch: Why do Patch readers need to test for radon?

Connecticut Department of Public Health: Since radon is undetectable to the naked eye, a test is the only way to know for sure if it’s present in your home. Otherwise, you won’t know it’s in your home until long into the future when negative health issues arise. If you’ve never tested for radon, or if you’ve recently finished your basement, you should test. Ground level living spaces are most commonly affected by radon.

Patch: What are the risks from radon exposure if it’s not removed?

Connecticut Department of Public Health: Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers in the United States. Health officials estimate that radon is responsible for over 21,000 lung cancer deaths each year in our country. However, lung cancer occurs after long-term exposure over the course of many years. This is why testing for radon and removing it from your home is so important.

Patch: How can Patch readers get a radon test?

Connecticut Department of Public Health: Radon tests are easily available at no or low-cost. Winter is the perfect time to test for radon when doors and windows are closed for long periods of time. You can learn how to get your no or low-cost radon testing kit by visiting the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH): www.ct.gov/radon.

Tests will be available only during the month of January while supplies last. Kits can also be purchased from the American Lung Association of New England by calling 1-800-LUNG-USA.

Patch: What should Patch readers do if they find there is radon in their home? How can they remove it?

Connecticut Department of Public Health: If radon is found in your home, you can have it reduced. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends that homes with radon levels at or above 4.0 pCi/L be fixed. Homeowners should consider reducing their risk of developing lung cancer by fixing homes with radon levels between 2 pCi/L and 4 pCi/L. Smokers exposed to radon have a much higher risk for developing lung cancer down the road.

Radon can be corrected by qualified radon contractors, with costs typically ranging between $1,200 and $1,500. A homeowner should hire a nationally-certified radon mitigation (reduction) contractor to decrease airborne radon levels.

Patch: How can Patch readers learn more?

Connecticut Department of Public Health: To learn more about radon and to obtain a list of nationally-certified radon mitigation contractors, please visit the DPH Radon Program website: www.ct.gov/radon.