A letter from NACo's president

Dear Fellow County Officials,

Radon is a natural, radioactive gas that can cause lung cancer. It is invisible, odorless and tasteless. According to the U.S. EPA, it is the leading cause of lung cancer among nonsmokers in the United States. Yearly, between 7,000 and 30,000 deaths can be attributed to radon-induced lung cancer. Everyone is susceptible to the effects of radon. Therefore, it is extremely appropriate to focus attention on radon in our homes, schools and workplaces. Elevated levels of radon have been found in every state, in many counties and in one out of 15 homes nationally.

Information is one of the most powerful of all tools. Among the many activities occurring during "National Radon Action Week" (Oct. 19-26), I particularly encourage testing for radon. We need to know where it is and where it is not.

Since radon cannot be detected by our senses, only by testing can we move from the world of statistical estimates to the realm of certain knowledge. We need to know the extent of the problem and the distribution of the threat.

As the problem is further defined, as excessive levels of radon are found, then there are successful and economical solutions to reduce it. However, before people fix, they need to test. Before they will test, they need to know. Therefore, a successful role counties can play is to actively promote radon awareness and testing during "National Radon Action Week."

I strongly encourage my fellow county colleagues and their counties to actively participate in "National Radon Action Week."

Very Truly Yours,

Randy Johnson
NACo President