Radon can be found throughout Minnesota
Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that naturally comes from the soil. Radon gives off radioactive particles that, when breathed in, can damage the lining of the lungs. In Minnesota, 2 in 5 homes tested have radon levels that are a major health risk. Our high radon levels are due to our unique geology and cold climate. In winter, home heating systems tend to draw in radon gas from the soil, increasing radon levels in the home.
Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. Only smoking causes more lung cancer deaths. If your home has high radon levels and you smoke, your risk of lung cancer is even higher.
Test your home for radon
Your home can have high radon levels whether it is old or new, well-sealed or drafty, and with or without a basement. And houses next to each other can have very different radon levels. The only way to measure your radon risk is to test your home. If you do have high radon levels in your home, there are ways to reduce it.
Learn more about radon, and what is being done in Minnesota: