While homeowners often plan home improvement projects for summer, it’s important to consider home safety year-round. In January, the Western Upper Peninsula Health Department assists homeowners in testing for radon gas.
Shane Lewis, environmental health director at the Western Upper Peninsula Health Department, says long-term radon exposure can lead to certain cancers, including lung cancer. He adds that about 10% of homes that have been tested in the Western Upper Peninsula have radon levels exceeding the nationally recognized threshold of 4 picocuries per liter.
“A sealed home is best,” Lewis said. “Winter is a time when we spend more time indoors. Now is the time to take a moment to check if radon is present in your home to keep your family safe. Use a three- to seven-day test kit, follow the instructions, place it in the lowest livable area of your home, and then send it off for analysis.”
Lewis noted that while older homes may test positive for radon more often, new construction is not exempt. Radon is a natural breakdown product of uranium decay, common in mineral-rich areas like the Upper Peninsula. Cracks and fissures in basements can allow radon gas to enter homes more easily.
Residents can pick up a free radon test kit from any WUPHD office during January. Learn more about radon testing kits online.
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