Did you know that radon gas could be present in your home? Exposure to radon gas is one of the major contributors to lung cancer nationally, in fact, radon causes more lung cancer among non-smokers than second-hand tobacco smoke and is the second leading cause of lung cancer overall. Yet many people aren’t aware that an easy-to-use test kit can tell them if their home has high radon levels.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, an estimated 21,000 lung cancer deaths per year among non-smokers are caused by radon, and approximately 962 of these deaths are in Wisconsin. The good news is that this cause of lung cancer is preventable and the first step is to test your home. In 2023, a staggering 48% of returned radon test kits in Fond du Lac County showed high levels of radon. If elevated radon is found, it can be fixed with a radon mitigation system.

Radon, an odorless radioactive gas naturally present in the ground, can enter buildings through their foundations. 1 in 10 Wisconsin homes have elevated levels. With around one-third of the state’s housing units occupied by renters, it is important for both owners and tenants to be proactive about testing for radon. More than 100 radon mitigation contractors in Wisconsin are nationally certified to install radon mitigation systems if elevated radon levels are found. Each year, thousands of systems are installed in existing homes, and newly constructed homes are recommended to include features that reduce radon entry. Any home or building can be susceptible to radon, which is why testing your home is so important.

The Fond du Lac County Health Department is offering $5.00 short-term radon test kits during the month of January. Pick up yours at the Health Department located at 160 S. Macy Street, 3rd floor, Monday through Friday from 8:00 A.M. to 4:30 P.M.

Return your packaged and labeled radon test kit by noon on the following dates: January 16, January 30, February 13, or February 27 to receive free shipping. Radon test kits must be set the 48-72 hours prior to returning. Short-term radon test kits are available year-round at the Health Department for $10.

Stay informed and take action on radon by visiting Wisconsin Department of Health Services website and/or contacting the Fond du Lac County Health Department at (920) 929-3085 for questions.