Radon exposure is the leading cause of lung cancer for non-smokers and the second leading cause of lung cancer overall. Did you know that radon gas could be present in your home? Exposure to radon gas is one of the major contributors to lung cancer nationally, yet many people are not aware that an easy-to-use test kit can tell them if their home has high radon levels. An estimated 21,000 lung cancer deaths per year among non-smokers are caused by radon, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Surgeon General, and approximately 962 of these deaths are in Wisconsin. The good news is that this cause of lung cancer is preventable and the first step is to test your home. If elevated
radon levels are detected, it can be fixed with a radon mitigation system. More than 100 radon mitigation contractors in Wisconsin are nationally certified to install radon mitigation systems. Each year, thousands of systems are installed in existing homes, and newly constructed homes are recommended to include features that reduce radon entry.
This odorless radioactive gas is naturally present in the ground, and can enter buildings through their foundations. Any home or building can be susceptible to radon. One in 10 Wisconsin homes have elevated levels. In 2023, an eye-opening 48% of returned radon test kits in Fond du Lac County showed high levels of radon. Around one-third of the state’s housing units are occupied by renters, and it is important for both owners and tenants to be proactive about testing for radon. The only way to know if your home has elevated radon levels is to test. During the month of January, Radon Action Month, The Fond du Lac County Health Department is offering $5.00 short-term radon test kits, one per household. Purchase your test kit Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8am-4:30pm at our department located on the 3rd floor in the City/County Government Center at 160 S. Macy Street, Fond du Lac. Return your packaged and labeled radon test kit to the Health Department by noon on the following dates to receive free shipping:
January 14, January 28, February 11, February 25, March 18, or April 8. Radon test kits must be set 48-72 hours prior to returning. Short-term radon test kits are available year-round for $10 at the Fond du Lac County Health Department. Stay informed and take action on radon by visiting Wisconsin Department of Health Services and/or contacting the
Fond du Lac County Health Department at 920-929-3085 with questions.
