Each year, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) provides radon test kits to city and county health departments, tribal governments and the Michigan State University (MSU) Extension Office. Kits test for the presence of deadly radon gas, which was found to be high in a quarter of Michigan homes.
Radon test kit.
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas. You can’t see, smell, or taste radon, and there are no short-term side effects that might cause alarm or warn of its presence. However, long-term exposure to radon increases the risk of lung cancer, which kills more men and women in the United States than any other form of cancer.
During Radon Action Month in January, EGLE highlighted its radon program, which aims to:
- Raising awareness of the health risks associated with elevated indoor radon levels,
- promote home testing, and
- Once elevated radon levels are detected, citizens are encouraged to take action to reduce exposure.
Statewide interest in radon kits is high, said Les Smith, III, indoor radon expert at EGLE. “Since October 1, 2022, EGLE has shipped more than 11,000 test kits to radon outreach partners across the state,” he said. “Many partners are offering kits at a reduced cost or in some cases for free.”
Toolkits are available from EGLE in almost all counties.
To find out if a radon test kit is available near you, contact EGLE’s local health department partner.
