January is National Radon Action Month
Radon is a public health concern in Minnesota, where two in five homes have radon levels that can cause health impacts. Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that can seep up from the soil surrounding homes. The gas can come through pores, cracks and floor-wall joints in your home. Winter home heating systems tend to draw in radon gas from the soil, increasing radon levels inside the home during this time of year.
Health impacts
When inhaled, radon can damage the cells in people's lungs. Over time this damage can increase the risk of lung cancer.
Take action
The only way to know if you have radon is to test your home. The Environmental Protection Agency recommends you test your home every two years as radon levels can fluctuate. Environmental Health offers $2 radon test kits so you can protect your family from this harmful gas. Residents can purchase one kit per address.