A new warning has come out regarding dangerously high levels of radon in the Southern Tier, according to a release received by Tioga County’s Health Department. They stated that Tioga County is one of five counties in New York State with the highest levels of radon.
What’s the big concern about radon? Radon exposure is proven to increase the risk of lung cancer. Radon exposure is the leading cause of lung cancer deaths in non-smokers, with 900 to 1,000 New York residents dying each year as a result of radon exposure. Radon cannot be detected through sight or smell, and without testing you may have no idea that your family is at great risk.
It is estimated that around 51 percent of the homes in Tioga County have elevated levels of radon. High levels are considered unsafe and extremely dangerous to your family’s health.
Tioga County towns with alarmingly high levels of radon (starting with the highest rates) are Candor, Barton, Newark Valley, Nichols and Berkshire. Residents living in these towns are strongly encouraged to get radon tests done. If your home is found to have high levels of radon, there are ways to eliminate it and still keep your family safe.
Todd Kopalek, supervising public health sanitarian stated, “I strongly encourage all Tioga County residents should test for radon in their homes.” Tioga County Public Health is offering free radon testing through their Healthy Neighborhoods Program. There are no income requirements to have a radon test done in your home.
To schedule your free radon test, call (607) 687-8600.
I am buying a house in Newark Valley and am looking for information on best way to eliminate radon….My testing level for a 2 day test was 44.7..I a interested in the best root to go..Thank you.