Kootenai County has some of the highest radon levels in the state

Radon is an odorless, tasteless, radioactive gas that occurs naturally from the decay of uranium in soil. It seeps into homes and other buildings through gaps in walls and floors where it can build up to high levels. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, contributing to more than 20,000 deaths each year.

High levels of radon gas have been found all around the state. Kootenai County has some of the highest radon levels, with a county household average of 13.7 pCi/L (Pico Curies per liter of air). The state average is 6.6 pCi/L. Sixty-two percent of homes tested in Kootenai County have levels of radon equal to or greater than the Environmental Protection Agency's action level of 4 pCi/L. This federal action level was established as a point where steps should be taken to reduce radon in homes or buildings.

According to the Surgeon General, everyone should test their home for radon. It doesn't matter if your home is new or old, has a basement or a crawlspace, or if your neighbor's home tested low. Testing for radon is easy, inexpensive and is the only way to know if your home has radon. If you find that your home has high radon levels, there are protective measures you can take.

Protect your family. Test for radon today. Idaho residents can purchase a radon test for $6.95 (includes shipping and analysis) by dialing 2-1-1, the Idaho CareLine or online at www.radonidaho.org.

For additional information about radon, please contact the Indoor Environment Program at (800) 445-8647.