COLUMBIA, S.C. — South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster has proclaimed January as Radon Action Month, and the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) is urging residents to become familiar with the risks of radon presence inside the home.
Radon is a naturally occurring, invisible, odorless and tasteless gas that is dissipated in outdoor air but can reach harmful levels when trapped inside a building. Radon forms from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock and water and can enter homes through cracks and holes in foundations, construction joints and plumbing fixtures.
Radon is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the United States after smoking, and the health risks from radon are even greater for smokers. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates radon is responsible for more than 21,000 lung cancer deaths each year nationwide.
“Radon is a serious but often overlooked health risk, and many homeowners don’t realize it could be present in their homes,” said Rhonda Thompson, Chief of SCDES’s Bureau of Air Quality. “Testing is the only way to know your home’s radon level, and it’s a simple step that can help protect your family’s health.”
While radon can only be detected by performing a home test, it can be mitigated if found. South Carolina has nationally certified radon contractors who can measure radon levels and install systems to reduce radon inside homes. SCDES provides links to credentialed radon professionals, guidance on selecting a radon contractor and additional radon-related resources online at des.sc.gov/radon.
“We want to remove barriers that might prevent residents from testing their homes,” said Olivia Burgher, Environmental Health Manager with SCDES’s Radon Program. “That’s why we offer free radon test kits to South Carolina homeowners, while supplies last.”
Test kits can be requested at des.sc.gov/radon. Radon test kits may also be purchased from the National Radon Program for $17 at sosradon.org or by calling 1-800-767-7236.
For more information about radon, visit des.sc.gov/radon, email [email protected] or call 1-800-768-0362
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