Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers and the second leading cause of lung cancer deaths overall. The EPA estimates radon exposure results in approximately 20,000 lung cancer deaths annually; of those, an estimated 2,900 occur among people who have never smoked.

Radon is a radioactive gas that results from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. The risk of radon exposure can therefore be associated with the type of soil and bedrock that is present where you live. Radon cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted. The gas can enter any type of building through cracks in solid floors, construction joints, gaps in suspended floors, pipe openings, and in some cases through the water supply. Even small amounts of radon, from soils and bedrocks with low uranium content, can build up to be a big problem.

Radon levels are dependent upon a number of variables, for this reason the Health Dept. strongly recommends everyone test their home, even if you are not in a high risk area. Test kits are available at any of the three environmental health district offices for an all inclusive fee of $4.00. To see how the test works and/or review the instructions for the test you've purchased from one of the district offices, click here. Once the test has been completed the kit can be dropped in the mail. Test results will be available 7-10 days after mailing the kit.

EPA resources that can provide more radon information::
"A Citizens's Guide to Radon"
Frequent Questions

If you're curious about radon exposure in your area
check out the EPA or NYSDOH radon risk maps.