RADON – is a radioactive gas that has no smell, color or taste. Radon is produced from the natural radioactive decay of uranium, which is found in all rocks and soils. Radon can also be found in water. Radon escapes from the ground into the air, where it decays and produces further radioactive particles. As we breathe, these particles are deposited on the cells lining the airways, where they can damage DNA and potentially cause lung cancer.

Radon enters buildings through cracks in the floors or at floor-wall junctions, gaps around pipes or cables, small pores in hollow-block walls, cavity walls, or sumps or drains. Radon levels are usually higher in basements, cellars and living spaces in contact with the ground. However, considerable radon concentration can also be found above the ground floor.

Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer deaths among nonsmokers in America and claims the lives of about 21,000 Americans each year. In fact, the EPA and the U.S. Surgeon General urge all Americans to protect their health by testing their homes, schools and other buildings for radon every 2-5 years.

Exposure to radon is a preventable health risk and testing radon levels in your home can help prevent unnecessary exposure. If a high radon level is detected in your home, you can take steps to fix the problem to protect yourself and your family.

Radon levels can vary but tend to be highest during the winter when homes are being heated and the air is stagnant. Since most people don’t open their windows during the winter, there’s nowhere for radon to escape too which causes it to build up in the home. This makes winter the best time for radon testing.

You can purchase a radon test kit from a hardware store and do it yourself. However, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends hiring a qualified tester if you are buying, selling or renovating your home.

To purchase a test kit from your local hardware store, click the link below.
**Ace Hardware – 1961 Otsego Ave, Coshocton, OH 43812**
https://www.acehardware.com/search?query=radon%20test%20kit

To download a booklet about radon, its health effects, and steps you can take if you are buying or selling a home, click the link below.
https://odh.ohio.gov/wps/wcm/connect/gov/99568f53-3a1b-4a9a-856e-97a009b9bb75/Radon_Booklet_2020.pdf?MOD=AJPERES&CONVERT_TO=url&CACHEID=ROOTWORKSPACE.Z18_M1HGGIK0N0JO00QO9DDDDM3000-99568f53-3a1b-4a9a-856e-97a009b9bb75-odCMz4I

National Radon Action Plan (2021-2025)
http://radonleaders.org/resources/nationalradonactionplan