• By Lorelei Elkins
• Posted Thursday, January 5, 2012

January is National Radon Action Month

The Forsyth County Office of Environmental Assistance and Protection (EAP) encourages all citizens this January, as part of National Radon Action Month, to take simple and affordable steps to test their homes for harmful levels of radon gas. Radon is the number one leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. Radon seeps into a home from underground and long term exposure can cause lung cancer.

“Testing for radon is easy and an important step in protecting the health of your family,” said Rob Russ, EAP radon specialist. It is estimated that 21,000 Americans die from radon related lung cancer each year, but there are simple steps you can take to prevent this health hazard.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Surgeon General recommend that all homes, both with and without basements, be tested for radon. Affordable Do-It-Yourself radon test kits are available at the Office of Environmental Assistance and Protection on the 5th floor of the Forsyth County Government Center at 201 North Chestnut Street in Winston Salem. EAP’s radon specialists will meet with you and explain the simple testing procedure. The current cost for a test kit is $14.00. Test kits can also be purchased at most home improvement stores.

Addressing high radon levels often costs no more than other minor home repairs. By testing for and reducing elevated levels of radon in your home, you can help prevent lung cancer while creating a healthier home and community.

Radon is a naturally occurring colorless, odorless, radioactive gas that comes from the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock and water. It can enter homes through cracks in the foundation or other openings such as holes or pipes.

See EAP's Rob Russ speaking about "Testing for Radon In The Home" on WFMY's Good Morning Show newscast.

For more information about radon, or to obtain a test kit contact the Office of Environmental Assistance and Protection at (336) 703-2440.