Madison Reporter

Over the past four years, testing has shown that approximately half of the homes tested in Dane County have high levels of radon. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas found throughout Wisconsin, which can enter homes from the ground.

"Over time, exposure to radon in a home can cause deadly lung cancer. Because of the ways that radon and tobacco smoke damage the lungs, it can be especially dangerous for people who smoke. Their risk of lung cancer is 10 times higher than that of non-smokers, but it is preventable," said John Hausbeck, Environmental Health Supervisor for Public Health Madison & Dane County. For non-smokers, radon is the leading cause of lung cancer.

January marks National Radon Action Month. The South Central Radon Information Center, representing Dane, Rock, and Green counties, encourages everyone to test their homes for radon.

"Because radon can't be seen, smelled, or tasted, even at high levels, testing is the only way to know if there are high levels of this invisible threat lurking in your home. It is a simple, affordable step to take that could save lives," said Hausbeck.

There are several options available for purchasing a test kit. Homeowners can call the South-Central Radon Information Center at 608-243-0392 or send a check made out to Madison City Treasurer to Public Health Madison & Dane County (Attn: Radon Program) at 2300 S. Park Street, Room 2022, Madison, WI 53713. Test kits can also be picked up at these locations:

Atrium Office: 2300 S. Park St., Suite 2010, Madison

East Washington Avenue Office: 2705 E. Washington Ave., Madison

"If you order through Public Health, short-term radon test kits are $10 dollars. They're also available online, at your local hardware store, or through a certified radon mitigation contractor but you may pay more," said Hausbeck.

Lab results typically become available within two to three weeks. If tests indicate concerning levels of radon, a certified contractor can install a system to prevent further entry into the house. For additional information on radon and a list of qualified remediation contractors, visit the Wisconsin Radon Information webpage.