January is National Radon Action Month, a vital time to raise awareness about one of the most common – and preventable – environmental health risks facing children today.
Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, can seep into homes and buildings from the soil. It’s invisible and odorless, but long-term exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States.
Like most environmental hazards, children are especially vulnerable to radon. This is in part because they breathe more air per pound of body weight and spend significant time indoors.
Simple steps at home, in child care settings, and at school can make a big difference in keeping kids safe. Testing for radon is easy, affordable, and the only way to know if levels are elevated. If high levels are found, mitigation systems can be installed to reduce the risk. Ensuring proper ventilation, maintaining building foundations, and re-testing every two years (or after major renovations) further helps create a healthy environment.
This month, we encourage you to take action – test, mitigate if needed, and spread the word. Together, we can create safer, healthier spaces where every child can grow and thrive.