Beware of Radon in January
For Immediate Release
January 10, 2000
For Additional Information Contact:
Michael Mullet
Community Relations Coordinator
(616) 336-2220
JANUARY IS RADON AWARENESS MONTH
The Kent County Health Department is observing Radon Awareness Month, January 2000, by reminding people to test their homes for radon. Radon test kits are available from the Health Department, 700 Fuller N.E., between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. for $5.00.
Radon, a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas is the byproduct of the radioactive decay of uranium in the earth. As radon gas rises through the soil, it can seep into homes through cracks in the foundations, well, and older dirt-floored basement crawl spaces. Long term exposure to elevated levels of radon can increase the risk of lung cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, radon is responsible for 17,000 cases of lung cancer in the U.S. each year.
The Health Department recommends testing your home for radon in the fall or winter, when windows are typically closed and radon, if present, is not diluted by fresh air from the outdoors. Environmental Health experts say that although radon does not pose an imminent health threat, it is important to be aware if radon is in your home, at what level and how long you have been exposed, and how to evaluate the long-term health risk.
The Kent County Health Department Environmental Health Division maintains a database of home radon test results for homes tested in Kent County. Of all the valid test results received to date, approximately 15% showed a radon level above what is considered safe (4 pCi/l; 4 picocuries per liter of air).
If additional testing is necessary to confirm an elevated radon level, the Environmental Health Division also supplies these tests to the public. If remediation or corrective action is necessary, detailed information and a listing of certified radon contractors is also available. Contact the Environmental Health Division at (616) 336-3089, weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. for more information.
