OKLAHOMA — January is National Radon Action Month, and the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality is encouraging residents across the state to test their homes for radon by offering free radon test kits.
The effort is part of a nationwide awareness campaign in partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency aimed at educating the public about the dangers of radon exposure and the importance of early detection.
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas released from the breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. It is invisible, odorless, and tasteless, making it impossible to detect without testing. While radon typically disperses harmlessly outdoors, it can build up to dangerous levels inside homes and buildings.
According to the EPA, radon exposure is responsible for more than 20,000 lung cancer deaths each year in the United States. It is the second leading cause of lung cancer, behind smoking, and the leading cause among non-smokers.
Health officials estimate that one in every 15 homes nationwide has radon levels at or above the recommended action level of 4 picoCuries per liter (pCi/L). Because elevated radon levels can occur in any home regardless of age, location, or construction type, testing is the only way to know if a home is at risk.
DEQ officials say testing is simple and free, and January is a good reminder for homeowners to take action to protect their families.
Oklahoma residents can request a free radon test kit by visiting the DEQ’s radon testing page at states.aelabs.com/#/ok. Kits are mailed directly to residents with instructions for use and return.
For more information about radon, testing, and mitigation options, residents are encouraged to contact the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality or visit the agency’s website.
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