Thursday, Oct. 11 2012 4:48PM

Radon Week reminds homeowners of hazard

Millions of Americans are unknowingly being exposed to radon, a dangerous gas known to cause lung cancer.

Oct. 15 to 21 is Federal Radon Action Week and health agencies throughout the United States are joining forces to promote awareness of this leading cause of lung cancer for non-smokers.

The American Lung Association, Centers for Disease Control and National Cancer Institute all agree that radon is a national health problem and encourage radon testing during this month’s awareness drive.

Radon is a naturally-occurring, invisible and odorless radioactive gas. One in 15 American homes contains high levels of radon. Millions of Americans are unknowingly exposed, with a recent study by Harvard University ranking radon as America’s number one home hazard. By taking simple steps to test your home for radon and fix if necessary, the health hazard can be avoided.

Radon gas is not isolated to certain geographical areas or home types. Radon problems have been detected in homes in every county of the United States. It caused more American fatalities last year than carbon monoxide, fires and handguns combined.

If a home hasn’t been tested for radon in the past two years, the Environmental Protection Agency and Surgeon General urge you to contact your state radon office for information on locating qualified test kits or testers.

For more information: www.epa.gov/radon/index.-

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