National Radon Month announced

TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Department of Health (DOH) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognize January as Radon Action Month to educate Floridians about indoor radiation exposure as a lung cancer risk and to emphasize the importance of identifying and mitigating elevated indoor radon in homes and buildings statewide.

“Because exposure to elevated indoor radon is dangerous to the health of all people in Florida, it is important to be knowledgeable about this hazard,” said Dr. Lisa Conti, Director of the DOH Division of Environmental Health. “I urge all Floridians to protect their families by getting their homes tested for radon.”

Radon is a naturally occurring, invisible, odorless and tasteless radioactive gas emitted from soils. While outdoor levels produce little risk, higher concentrations found indoors present potential lung cancer health hazards. Nationally, an average of 1 out of 15 homes has elevated radon, but in Florida, the average is about 1 out of 7 homes. Radon problems are found in all regions of Florida and in all types of residences whether they are old or new, a one-story house or a 20-story condominium. According to the U.S. Surgeon General, indoor radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States and the leading cause among non-smokers. Each January, the EPA and its national partners work to raise awareness about radon and the importance of testing, especially in homes and schools.

According to the National Academy of Sciences, prolonged exposure to elevated radon levels causes approximately 21,000 deaths nationwide each year. The EPA recommends fixing your home if measured indoor levels of radon are four picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher.

To prevent dangerous radon exposure, DOH and EPA suggest: All homeowners should test their homes for radon. Self-test kits are available online and at many retail outlets, or you can hire a DOH-certified radon measurement professional.
 Homeowners should address elevated radon-related problems immediately. The cost is similar to other medium-cost home repairs or a high-end appliance.
 New homes should include radon-resistant features which can be easily and inexpensively installed during initial construction. These features are especially important in areas reporting elevated radon levels.
 

DOH promotes, protects and improves the health of all people in Florida. For more information about radon or free radio or TV public service announcements, visit the DOH radon website at http://radon.doh.state.fl.us or contact the DOH Radon Hotline at 1-800-543-8279.