Health Officials Urge Winter Radon Tests During Awareness Campaign

Overview

• Local and national experts are pressing homeowners to test now because cold-weather conditions can trap the gas indoors and drive readings higher.
• New Utah data show widespread exposure, with nearly half of tested homes at or above the World Health Organization’s mitigation level and some counties nearing 70%.
• The EPA attributes about 21,000 U.S. lung cancer deaths each year to radon, and smokers face an even greater risk when exposed.
• Testing options range from free or low-cost kits and 48-hour professional assessments to continuous WiFi monitors, with pros recommending a professional test every two years if no monitor is used.
• Mitigation is recommended at 4 pCi/L, typical air systems run around $2,000 with complexity varying by home, and water treatment systems cost more.