Mountain State Times

The West Virginia Department of Health is offering free radon test kits to residents as part of an initiative coinciding with National Radon Action Month. Governor Jim Justice has declared January as a time to raise awareness about radon, an odorless and invisible radioactive gas.

Cabinet Secretary Sherri A. Young emphasized the importance of testing for radon, stating, “We like to think that just because everything in our home looks safe that means it is. Unfortunately, radon is something that we can’t see, can’t smell, and can’t know it's harming us without testing. We are encouraging everyone to take a few moments to order this free kit. Doing so could potentially save your life and the lives of those you love.”

Jason Frame, director of the Office of Environmental Health Services, highlighted the accessibility of these kits: “You can never be too safe when it comes to protecting yourself and your home. These kits are delivered quickly and come at no cost to residents, making it easier than ever to take that first step.”

Radon is naturally released from rocks, soil, and water and can accumulate indoors over time. High levels of exposure are linked to serious health risks including lung cancer. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Surgeon General’s office estimate that radon causes over 21,000 lung cancer deaths annually in the United States.

Testing is the only way to confirm safe radon levels in homes. The Office of Environmental Health Services’ radon program tracks these levels statewide and shares findings on its Public Radon Dashboard. Residents are encouraged to request a free test kit by emailing radon@wv.gov or calling 304-352-5039.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that effective reduction systems can lower indoor radon concentrations by up to 99 percent. The EPA advises action if levels reach or exceed 4 picoCuries per liter (pCi/L).