Date Published: 01/06/2020 [Source]
January is National Radon Action Month, so it's a good time to learn about radon and its risks, and how to get your home tested. Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas that you cannot see, smell, or taste, usually comes from the surrounding rocks and soil under your home's foundation and can enter through cracks and openings on the lowest level of your home. It is the second leading cause of lung cancer deaths in the U.S. and the number one cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. If you smoke and your home has high radon levels, your risk of lung cancer is especially high. The New York State Department of Health, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Surgeon General recommend testing all homes for radon.
The Health Department's Healthy Neighborhoods Program (HNP) provides free home radon testing for low to moderate-income families and seniors. A brief home-safety survey is required at the time of the visit.