Oneida County raises awareness about radon

Radon is easy to ignore because we cannot see it. But radon can harm our health and the health of our loved ones. It is the leading cause of lung cancer in people who do not smoke. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) is helping people learn the facts about radon and find low-cost ways to test their homes.

“Just because we can’t see radon doesn’t mean it isn’t in our homes or dangerous to our health,” said Paula Tran, state health officer. “January is National Radon Action Month. This is a good time for Wisconsinites to learn about radon, test their homes, and talk with others about the risk.”

“Testing your home for radon is easy and can save lives,” added Oneida County health officer Linda Conlon. “Knowing your radon level helps protect your family now and in the future.”

Radon is a natural gas that comes from the ground. It can enter homes through cracks in the foundation. For people who smoke, high radon levels raise the risk of lung cancer by ten times. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says radon causes about 21,000 lung cancer deaths each year in the United States.

Testing for radon in Wisconsin is easy and affordable. DHS works with 17 county agencies called Regional Radon Information Centers. These centers help people in all 72 counties. Since 2010, they have given out over 100,000 free or low-cost radon test kits and help thousands of residents every year.

Radon test kits are simple to use and available at the Oneida County Health Department (OCHD), 100 W Keenan Street, Rhinelander. Throughout January, OCHD is offering a special discount on these kits. You can purchase a test kit for only $15, which includes postage for mailing in the kit for results. Kits will be available at the discounted price until Jan. 31. Visit the OCHD office anytime Monday to Friday, between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., and ask for a radon test kit. No appointment necessary.

More information can be found at lowradon.org.