January is Radon Action Month, and the Health Department of Northwest Michigan (HDNW), together with Northern Michigan Public Health Alliance (NMPHA), is using this month to educate residents about the dangers of radon gas.

Throughout January, HDNW offices are exchanging home radon kits for a nonperishable item or $5. During the “Give a Can & Get a Kit!” event, all food donations and financial contributions given will be given to local food pantries.

"Radon is a major health concern that is often ignored because it is invisible and odorless," says Jeremy Fruk, HDNW Director of Environmental Health. "The best time to test your home is during the winter, as doors and windows are closed.”

Testing for radon is easy, and if high levels are found, there are ways to reduce exposure.

What is Radon?
When Uranium, a naturally occurring element in soil or rock, breaks down, radium is formed. The radium is then turned into radon gas. Over time, small cracks in your home’s foundation can grow larger as it settles, making an easy pathway for radon gas to enter your home from the ground. Radon gas can be found in old or new homes.

Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, causing thousands of deaths each year. Exposure to radon causes no immediate symptoms, but the long-term threat of lung cancer can affect everyone. HDNW and NMPHA encourage you to test your home for radon during Radon Action Month. By doing so, you can play a crucial role in creating healthier homes and communities.

Learn more about radon by visiting www.nwhealth.org/radon or call us locally at 800-432-4121. For additional information about radon, visit the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) page at https://www.epa.gov/radon or the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) page at http://www.michigan.gov/radon. To stay updated on health related topics, sign up for our newsletter by clicking here.