The Florida Department of Health In Leon County Recognizes National Radon Action Month 

During the month of January - National Radon Action Month - the Florida Department of Health in Leon County (DOH Leon) is emphasizing the importance of having a home safe from radon. The Florida Radon Program distributes free radon test kits by request.

Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. among non-smokers. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that radon is responsible for more than 21,000 lung cancer deaths per year in the United States. This is more than the number of deaths associated with DUI accidents.

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is invisible, odorless, and tasteless. Radon is released harmlessly from the ground into outdoor air, but it can accumulate and reach harmful levels when trapped in homes and buildings.

“January is a good time to remind people that they should test their residences for radon every few years,” said Sandon S. Speedling, MHS, CPM, CPH, DOH Leon Interim Health Officer. “The idea is that with the New Year, there are simple things you can do to protect your family and the air they breathe.”

In Florida, one in five homes tested for radon has elevated levels. “The only way to know if a home has high radon levels is to test,” said Speedling.

For more information about how to test your home for radon or hire state-certified radon measurement professionals, contact the Florida Radon Program at 1-800-543-8279 or visit the department’s Radon Program website.

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Written by: Pamela Saulsby | Public Information Officer