Exposure to radon is more likely during the winter

As we recently reported, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has declared January National Radon Action Month, and influential organizations such as The American Lung Association, Centers for Disease Control and National Cancer Institute are all on board with this effort. 

People are more likely to be exposed to this hazardous radioactive gas in the winter time since they are indoors more often. However, that’s not the only reason experts chose to bring awareness to dangers of radon, Amanda Whitman, press aide for the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, told local news source The Sentinel. 

“Radon tends to build up in the winter time because homes are more closed up,” Whitman said. “Windows closed [and] doors closed because of weather – those are factors that cause radon to build up even higher.”

According to the EPA, this odorless, colorless gas is responsible for approximately 21,000 lung cancer deaths every year, making it the number one cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. Radon can seep into the cracks and holes in a home’s foundation, says The Sentinel, where it can build up to toxic levels. Whitman told the source that certain areas of Pennsylvania are considered high-risk, which means it’s important for homeowners to determine whether they are being exposed to the gas. 

Moving into a new house that hasn’t received a proper home inspection is a dangerous idea, as it can lead to lots of repair costs, and can even seriously compromise your health. If you’re thinking of buying a new house, or if you want to conduct radon testing at your current property, a home inspection contractor can help you determine if you’re safe, and what to do if you aren’t.