High radon levels have been found in homes in every Idaho county. Radon, which is odorless, tasteless, and invisible, is the second-leading cause of lung cancer, behind smoking, and is a serious health threat in Idaho. Nearly 40 percent of Idaho homes tested for radon have higher-than-recommended levels.

“Since we know radon causes lung cancer, we recommend that you test your home to learn if it has high levels of this harmful gas,” said Dr. Colby Adams, environmental health director for DHW’s Division of Public Health. “Testing a home for radon is easy and inexpensive. Home radon levels are higher during winter months, which is why January is National Radon Action Month and a good time to test. If testing reveals that your home has high radon levels, you can take steps to remove the gas and protect you and your family.”

Radon is an invisible radioactive gas formed from natural deposits of uranium and radium in Idaho soils. The gas is drawn into homes and buildings through gaps and cracks in crawl spaces and foundations. High levels of radon in your home can expose you and your family to radiation, which can damage your lungs and increase your risk of developing lung cancer. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that radon causes 21,000 deaths in the U.S. each year.

The only way to know if your home has high levels of radon is to test for it. Testing is easy, requiring opening a package and placing a small measuring device in your home for several days. The device is then mailed to a lab for processing, and results are returned to the homeowner.

Visit www.radonidaho.org to order a radon test kit with simple instructions for $9.95. The cost for the test covers shipping, handling, and test results. You can also call the Idaho CareLine at 211 for more information.

Data Source: Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, 1990-2018

Learn more and view radon levels in your zip code www.radonidaho.org