New York State Department of Health Recognizes Radon Action Month With a Reminder for Homeowners to Test their Homes

Radon is the Leading Cause of Lung Cancer Deaths in Non-Smokers

Learn More About Radon Here

ALBANY, N.Y. (January 29, 2024) – The New York State Department of Health is reminding homeowners to test for radon during National Radon Action Month. Radon is odorless and colorless but could be present at a dangerous level inside the home.

"Radon is known as a silent killer because you can't see, taste, or smell it in the home, but the good news is there's an easy way to test for it," State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. "Testing for radon should be done in the home, as well as in businesses, schools, and other buildings, so when radon is detected steps can be taken to mitigate exposure to this serious health risk."

Radon is a naturally occurring, radioactive gas found in soil and rock that can seep into buildings through cracks in the foundation, walls, and joints. Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer deaths among non-smokers in the U.S., claiming the lives of about 21,000 Americans each year. Exposure to radon is preventable, and testing for radon levels inside the home can save lives.

While radon testing can be done at any time, it's best to test for radon during the winter months when windows and doors are closed and there is less fresh airflow into the home or building. Every home should be tested for radon every five years and re-tested after remodeling, weatherizing, or after radon mitigation.

Once elevated levels are detected, there are radon reduction systems that can decrease levels in homes by as much as 99 percent. Radon reduction systems should be installed by certified radon mitigation contractors. To locate a certified contractor, click here.

New Yorkers building a new home in an area considered high-risk for radon should speak with a building contractor about installing a passive radon mitigation system during construction. A passive system can reduce radon levels by as much as 50 percent and can be easily converted into an active system with the installation of a fan if additional radon reduction is necessary.

Information about radon-resistant new construction can be found here.

The following Department websites have additional information and resources about radon:

Information about National Radon Action Month is available here.