Incline Village, NV — January is National Radon Action Month, and the North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District (NLTFPD) is reminding residents that radon is a serious but preventable health risk—and the only way to know your risk is to test your home.
Radon is a naturally occurring, radioactive gas that comes from the breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. It is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, and it can accumulate indoors without warning. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, responsible for an estimated 21,000 deaths each year.
Why Radon Matters in Our Community
Homes in mountain and granite-rich regions—like the Lake Tahoe Basin—may have a higher potential for elevated radon levels. Radon can enter homes through:
- Cracks in foundations and floors
- Construction joints
- Gaps around pipes and utility lines
- Crawl spaces and basements
Test Your Home — It’s Simple and Affordable
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and EPA recommend that all homes be tested for radon, regardless of age, size, or construction type.
Testing tips:
- Short-term test kits are inexpensive and widely available online and at hardware stores
- Long-term tests provide a more accurate annual average
- If results show 4.0 pCi/L or higher, mitigation is strongly recommended
Radon Can Be Fixed
If elevated levels are found, radon mitigation systems can significantly reduce radon concentrations and improve indoor air quality. Most systems are professionally installed and are effective, reliable, and long-lasting.
A Message from NLTFPD
“Fire and life safety isn’t just about flames and smoke—it’s also about the hidden risks inside our homes,” said Fire Marshal John James. “Testing for radon is one of the simplest steps residents can take to protect their families’ long-term health.”
Learn More
Residents are encouraged to visit https://www.epa.gov/radon for:
- Testing guidance
- Mitigation information
- Certified radon professionals
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