Radon Action Month is upon us and health officials are encouraging all residents to test their homes for free through the New York State Healthy Neighborhoods Program.
Radon is an odorless, tasteless and invisible gas.If it’s in the ground, it can enter homes through cracks in the foundation.Some of the highest levels of radon in New York State can be found in the Southern Tier. In fact, 54 percent of Tioga County residents have it in their homes, according to the health department.
Experts say being exposed to this chemical increases the risk of developing lung cancer, and that radon is the top cause for lung cancer patients who were not smokers. Broome County also participates in Healthy Neighborhoods program. For a free radon test, call your county health department.
