Protect Your Home and Health
January marks Radon Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about the dangers of radon and the importance of testing your home for this colorless, odorless gas. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, and it's found in homes across the country, including right here in Colorado.
What is Radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that comes from the decay of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It can seep into homes through cracks in floors, walls, and foundations. While you can't see or smell radon, it can build up to dangerous levels indoors, particularly in areas like basements and lower levels of the home.
Why is Radon Dangerous?
Long-term exposure to elevated radon levels can lead to serious health issues, including lung cancer. In fact, radon exposure is responsible for an estimated 21,000 lung cancer deaths annually in the United States, according to the EPA. The good news is that radon exposure can be easily mitigated with proper testing and remediation.
How to Protect Your Home
Testing for radon is simple and affordable, and it’s the first step toward reducing your risk. If high levels are detected, radon mitigation systems can be installed to safely vent the gas outside.
What Home Buyers and Sellers Should Know About Radon
If you're buying or selling a home, it's crucial to understand the potential risks of radon exposure. Here's what you need to know:
For Home Buyers: Before finalizing a purchase, it’s a good idea to have a radon test performed as part of your home inspection. If elevated radon levels are detected, you can negotiate with the seller to have a radon mitigation system installed or request a reduction in the purchase price to cover the cost of installation. Testing is a small investment that can protect your health and help you avoid costly surprises later.
For Home Sellers: If you're selling a home, consider testing for radon before listing the property. If high levels are found, addressing the issue proactively with a mitigation system can be a selling point, as many buyers prefer a home with radon risks already resolved. It shows you're committed to the safety and well-being of potential buyers, which can boost confidence in your home.
Taking these simple steps can provide peace of mind for both buyers and sellers, ensuring a smooth transaction and a healthier home environment.
Free Radon Test Kits in Eagle, Garfield, and Pitkin Counties
To help you take action, residents of Eagle County, Garfield County, and Pitkin County can access free radon test kits. These kits are easy to use and can provide quick results. Here’s where to get yours:
Eagle County: The Eagle County Environmental Health Department provides test kits at the following locations:
Walking Mountains Science Center – 318 Walking Mountains Ln, Avon
Eagle County Environmental Health Desk – 500 Broadway St, Eagle
El Jebel Community Center – 20 Eagle County Rd, El Jebel
If you are unable to pick up a test kit at any of these locations, please contact us at (970) 328-8755 to talk about your options for receiving a kit.
Garfield County: The Garfield County Public Health Department provides test kits at the following locations:
Public Health 2014 Blake Ave. Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 | 970-665-6383
Public Health 195 W. 14th St. Rifle, CO 81650 | 970-665-6383
Carbondale CLEER office 520 S. Third St. Carbondale, CO 81623 | 970-704-9200
Pitkin County: The Pitkin County Environmental Health Department provides test kits beginning in January while supplies last. Tests can be picked up starting in January 2025 at their office in the Pitkin County Administration Building, 530 E Main St. Ste. 205 in the Com Dev offices between the hours of 8:30-4:00.
Don’t Wait – Test Your Home Today
Radon levels can vary from one home to the next, even in the same neighborhood. Testing is the only way to know if your home is affected. Protect your health and the health of your loved ones by testing for radon this January, during Radon Awareness Month, and beyond.
For more information on radon, testing, and mitigation, visit the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment or reach out to your local health department.
If you are navigating a home purchase or sale, I would love to help you navigate all aspects of a transaction, including radon testing and mitigation, if necessary. Please use my contact information below so I may help guide you through the process as your local real estate agent.