Fond du Lac County Health Department Urges Residents to Test Their Homes for Radon

Radon exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer overall and the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. In fact, Radon causes more lung cancer among non-smokers than secondhand tobacco smoke.

Did you know that radon gas could be present in your home? Many people are unaware that an easy-to-use test kit can determine whether their home has elevated radon levels.

Radon is an odorless, radioactive gas that naturally occurs in the ground and can enter buildings through cracks and openings in foundations. An estimated one in 10 Wisconsin homes have elevated radon levels.

The good news is that radon-related lung cancer is preventable, and the first step is testing your home.

Any home or building, new or old, can have elevated radon levels. If elevated radon levels are found, they can be reduced with a radon mitigation system.

In 2024, 49% of radon test kits returned in Fond du Lac County showed high radon levels. Because radon cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted, testing is the only way to know if your home is affected.

To encourage testing, the Fond du Lac County Health Department is offering $5 short-term radon test kits (one per household) with free shipping during the month of January. Test kits may be purchased at 160 S. Macy Street, 3rd Floor, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

To receive free shipping, completed and properly labeled test kits must be returned by noon on one of the following dates:

• January 13
• January 27
• February 10
• February 24
• March 17
• April 14

Radon test kits must be set for 48–72 hours prior to return.
Short-term radon test kits are available year-round for $10.
To learn more about radon and how to protect your health, visit www.lowradon.org or contact the Fond du Lac County Health Department at (920) 929-3085