PO Box 360
Trenton, NJ 08625-0360

For Release:
January 10, 2018

Christopher Rinn
Acting Commissioner

For Further Information Contact:
Office of Communications
(609) 984-7160

New Jersey Department of Health Urges Residents to Test Their Homes for Radon

January is Radon Action Month

The New Jersey Department of Health is joining with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) to urge all residents to protect their family’s health by testing their homes for radon. Governor Chris Christie issued a proclamation declaring January as Radon Action Month in New Jersey.

 

Radon is a naturally occurring, cancer-causing radioactive gas with no color, odor or taste. It moves from the soil and into homes through cracks and openings in the foundation.

 

“Currently only 30 percent of New Jersey residences have been tested for radon,” said Acting Health Commissioner Christopher R. Rinn.  “I strongly encourage every New Jersey resident to test their home for radon.  Elevated levels of radon have been found in homes located in every New Jersey county.”

 

Radon potential varies widely across New Jersey, and NJDEP has mapped radon potential by county and municipality, www.njradon.org/radonin.htm.

 

Radon is a serious health risk and is the second leading cause of lung cancer, and the leading cause among non-smokers. 

 

“The risk of developing lung cancer is highest among smokers who are also exposed to radon,” added Rinn. “In addition to testing their homes, smokers should also take steps to quit smoking.”  

 

Testing for radon is simple and inexpensive.  NJDEP can provide a list of certified companies that provide radon testing services, http://bit.ly/2y7Iqzh or residents can purchase do-it-yourself test kits from hardware stores, home centers or directly from certified companies through mail order. 

 

Residents can get more information from the NJDEP Radon Program’s website, www.njradon.org, or call the NJDEP Radon Program at (800) 648-0394.  NJDOH’s online resources include an updated fact sheet on radon, smoking, and lung cancer, and information on radon screening in New Jersey,

 

Follow the New Jersey Department of Health on Twitter @njdeptofhealth, Facebook /njdeptofhealth, Instagram @njdeptofhealth and Snapchat @njdoh.

 

Last Reviewed: 1/10/2018