West NY News

National Radon Awareness Week, scheduled for January 27-31, emphasizes the importance of testing homes for radon to prevent lung cancer. The Chautauqua County Health Department is urging residents to check their homes for radon exposure risks.

Radon is a colorless and odorless radioactive gas released from natural sources like rocks and soil. It can enter buildings through cracks in foundations or water systems, accumulating more in lower levels such as basements. Long-term exposure to high radon levels can lead to lung cancer.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) attributes about 21,000 annual lung cancer deaths in the United States to radon exposure, making it the second leading cause after smoking. Smokers exposed to radon have a significantly higher risk of developing lung cancer compared to non-smokers.

Jessica Wuerstle, Director of Environmental Health for Chautauqua County, stated, “The best time of year to test your home for radon is in the colder months when windows and doors are typically closed.” She added that testing is crucial to determining potential risks for families.

Residents are encouraged to test their homes if they have never been tested before or if preparing for real estate transactions or renovations. The Chautauqua County Health Department offers free radon test kits and suggests several measures to reduce radon levels at home.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development advises increasing airflow by using fans and sealing cracks with appropriate materials. Certified contractors can also assist in mitigating radon issues.

For further information on testing homes, resources are available through the EPA's Radon website or by calling the National Radon Hotline.

Chautauqua County residents interested in obtaining free test kits can contact the Environmental Health office directly.