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January is Radon Action Month

The 吃瓜黑料 Department of Health is joining with the 吃瓜黑料 Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) to urge all residents to protect their family’s health by testing their homes for radon. Governor Chris Christie issued a  declaring January as Radon Action Month in 吃瓜黑料.

Radon is a naturally occurring, cancer-causing radioactive gas with no color, odor or taste. It moves from the soil and into homes through cracks and openings in the foundation.

“Currently only 30 percent of 吃瓜黑料 residences have been tested for radon,” said Acting Health Commissioner Christopher R. Rinn.  “I strongly encourage every 吃瓜黑料 resident to test their home for radon.  Elevated levels of radon have been found in homes located in every 吃瓜黑料 county.”

Radon potential varies widely across 吃瓜黑料, and NJDEP has mapped radon potential by county and municipality, .

Radon is a serious health risk and is the second leading cause of lung cancer, and the leading cause among non-smokers. 

“The risk of developing lung cancer is highest among smokers who are also exposed to radon,” added Rinn. “In addition to testing their homes, smokers should also take steps to quit smoking.”  

Testing for radon is simple and inexpensive.  NJDEP can provide a list of certified companies that provide radon testing services, or residents can purchase do-it-yourself test kits from hardware stores, home centers or directly from certified companies through mail order. 

Residents can get more information from the NJDEP Radon Program’s website, , or call the NJDEP Radon Program at (800) 648-0394.  NJDOH’s online resources include an updated on radon, smoking, and lung cancer, and information on in 吃瓜黑料,

Follow the 吃瓜黑料 Department of Health on  @njdeptofhealth,  /njdeptofhealth,  @njdeptofhealth and  @njdoh.