Minnesota Residents Urged to Test Homes for Dangerous Radon Levels

Residents of Minnesota are being urged to test their homes for radon, a hazardous radioactive gas that can accumulate to dangerous levels. According to the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), there is approximately a 2-in-5 chance that homes in the state contain unsafe concentrations of this colorless and odorless gas, which is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers.

Radon seeps into homes through cracks in walls and openings in foundations, particularly in areas with geological conditions that favor its accumulation. Notably, counties in the south and southwest of Minnesota have a higher prevalence of detectable radon, as highlighted by Dakota County in a recent announcement. The MDH has indicated that around 40% of all homes in Minnesota show elevated levels of radon.

Dan Tranter, supervisor of the MDH Indoor Air Unit, emphasized the importance of testing, stating, “You can’t see or smell radon, so the only way to know how much is in the air is to test for it.” The danger posed by radon arises from its radioactive particles, which can inflict damage on lung tissue when inhaled.

Given Minnesota’s geology and its cold climate, radon poses a significant public health concern. During winter months, heating systems in homes often draw radon gas from the ground, contributing to higher indoor levels. The MDH advises residents that while there is no completely safe level of radon, the associated risks can be mitigated. Testing is recommended every two to five years, and if radon levels reach 4.0 picocuries per liter or higher, installation of a radon mitigation system is strongly advised.

To facilitate testing, various public health departments are offering free or low-cost radon test kits. Residents of Dakota County can obtain a complimentary kit at the Northern Service Center, located at 1 Mendota Road in West St. Paul, or at the Western Service Center on 14955 Galaxie Ave. in Apple Valley. In Washington County, free kits are available at several service centers, including the Cottage Grove Service Center and the Stillwater Government Center.

Ramsey County residents can order a radon test kit for just $2 through an online platform. Additionally, homeowners in other counties can purchase radon test kits from Air Chek, which has partnered with MDH to offer the kits for $12.95 at mn.radon.com.

As the winter season approaches, testing for radon becomes increasingly crucial. The MDH encourages all homeowners to take proactive measures to ensure the safety of their indoor air quality by utilizing available resources.