Radon test kits available to Allegan County residents can prevent lung cancer

What’s happening: January is Radon Action Month, and the Allegan County Health Department (ACHD) recommends residents learn more about radon, test for radon levels within their homes, and reduce radon levels within their homes if found.  

What is it: Radon is an odorless, tasteless gas that is the second-leading cause of lung cancer, after smoking. When you breathe in radon, radioactive particles from the decay of radon gas can get trapped in your lungs. It takes many years for lung cancer to develop, and most people don’t have symptoms until lung cancer is advanced. All outdoor and indoor air has some radon in it. 

How does it happen: Radon can build up in the air in any home or building. According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), one in four homes have high levels of radon. Testing is the only way to know if radon levels in your home are high. 

What can be done: Residents are recommended to learn more about radon and when to test their homes. More information can be found on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s radon page and MDHHS’s Indoor Radon Program page.  

What to test for radon: ACHD has free radon test kits available year-round for pickup Monday–Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Select local libraries will be offering free kits during January while supplies last.

• Dorr Township Library, 1804 Sunset Drive, Dorr 
• Fennville District Library, 400 W. Main St., Fennville
• Henika District Library, 149 S. Main St., Wayland 
• Hopkins District Library, 118 E. Main St., Hopkins
• Leighton Township Library, 4451 12th St., Wayland 
• Salem Township Library, 3007 142nd Ave., Burnips 
• Saugatuck-Douglas Library, 174 Center St., Douglas 
• Ransom District Library, 180 S Sherwood Ave., Plainwell 

What to know about radon reduction: If the radon level in your home is at or above four picocuries per liter (pCi/L) of air, EPA recommends installing a radon reduction system (also called a radon mitigation system). Consider contacting a licensed professional for installation.  Also, see these tips on how to reduce radon levels without a radon reduction system. 

How to learn more: Find more information on reducing radon in homes in the Consumer’s Guide to Radon Reduction: How to Fix Your Home.  For more information, visit Michigan.gov/radon and CDC radon information.