Date Published: 01/06/2020 [Source]
Radon is the leading environmental cause of cancer deaths in the United States and the leading cause of lung cancer among nonsmokers. More than 21,000 lung cancer deaths are attributed to radon each year in the U.S. About 2 in 5 homes in Minnesota have dangerous levels of radon. Otter Tail County Public Health recommends every home be tested.
Radon is an odorless, colorless and tasteless radioactive gas that occurs naturally in Minnesota soils. It can enter all kinds of homes through cracks or openings in walls or foundations. The only way for residents to know if their home has radon is to test.
Testing is easy, inexpensive and only takes 3-7 days. The best time to test is during the heating season, but testing can be done all year. A limited supply of free test kits is available at Otter Tail County Public Health offices.
Tests should be done in the lowest level of the home that is frequently occupied. If your home's level is at or above 4 pCi/L, you should consider verification testing and having a radon mitigation system installed.