Radon is a natural and radioactive gas that you can’t see, taste or smell. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recommends radon testing not just for Veterans, but for everyone. Radon can enter your home through floor and wall cracks, crawlspaces or soil. Every home has some radon. Prolonged inhalation of high amounts of radon increases your risk for lung cancer, according to the VA. A safe radon level is below 4 picoCuries per liter of air (pCi/L). Levels higher than 4 pCi/L requires immediate action.
How to Test for Radon
You can call the National Radon Hotline at 1-800-767-7236 to order a radon test kit. You can also have a professional test your home for radon, or you can hire a qualified contractor to repair your home to resolve any radon issues. Be sure to re-test your home after repairs are done to check if the radon levels have decreased. For a list of qualified testers or guidance on choosing a contractor, contact your state radon office.
Prevention Against Radon
Some preventative measures you can take include keeping your home well ventilated, sealing wall and floor cracks and refraining from smoking in your home (to minimize radon-related lung cancer). For more information and/or questions about radon, call the National Radon Helpline at 1-800-557-2366. Your elder law attorney may also have some information about radon testing, as well as other VA programs and services that are designed to ensure the health and well-being of Veterans and Servicemembers.
