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Silent Killer in Your Home: Test for Radon Now
12 Jan
Summary
- Radon, a colorless, odorless gas, is the second leading cause of lung cancer.
- Cook County offers free radon test kits to suburban residents.
- Testing is the only way to detect dangerous radon levels in homes.
January has been designated Radon Action Month, prompting the Cook County Department of Public Health to strongly encourage residents to test their homes. Radon, a radioactive gas, is the second primary cause of lung cancer nationwide, responsible for an estimated 21,000 deaths annually.
Due to its invisible nature, radon can build up in homes undetected. The Cook County Department of Public Health is providing free radon test kits to residents in suburban Cook County. For others, kits are available through the American Lung Association. Experts emphasize that testing is the sole method to ascertain radon levels.
High radon levels, considered 4 picocuries per liter or more, necessitate action. Even levels between 2 and 4 picocuries per liter warrant consideration for mitigation. Simple actions like sealing cracks and installing ventilation systems can reduce exposure and protect health.
