Photo: Francesco Scatena / iStock / Getty Images
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is urging residents to test their homes for radon as part of National Radon Action Month. Radon, a colorless and odorless gas, is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. Approximately 40% of homes in Pennsylvania have radon levels above the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) action level of 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L), according to the DEP.
DEP Secretary Jessica Shirley emphasized the importance of testing, stating, "Radon is a serious concern within the Commonwealth, but it is also very easy to protect yourself and your family from this naturally occurring gas." Test kits are available at home improvement stores for about $20 to $30. Completed kits are sent to certified labs for analysis, with results sent back to homeowners.
The American Lung Association also highlights the risk, noting radon as the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. Kevin Stewart, Director of Environmental Health at the Lung Association, stated, "Any home can have a radon problem, and testing is the only way to know if your home is safe."
Radon can enter homes through cracks in basements and foundations. Testing is recommended during colder months when homes are sealed, allowing radon to accumulate. For homes with high radon levels, mitigation systems are available, typically costing between $800 and $1,200.
Residents can contact the DEP's Radon Division for assistance with test results and mitigation options. The DEP provides a list of certified radon contractors and labs on its website.