Radon levels higher in NE Wisconsin

WINNEBAGO COUNTY - Health officials say Northeast Wisconsin’s radon levels are much higher than the national average.

“The national average is one in fifteen fail,” said David Daniels, the owner of Radon Specialists in Neenah. “The average around here is 50 to 60 percent. That's a huge difference.”

Elevated radon levels have been found in every town in Winnebago County. Radon is colorless and odorless, so it can only be detected through a home test kit.

“We're concerned that people in this county are being exposed to it at a fairly high rate,” said Jeff Phillips, the Environmental Health Supervisor in Winnebago County.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, radon gas caused more than 20,000 deaths in 2010. That is higher than drunken driving and drowning combined. It is also the second leading cause of lung cancer behind smoking.

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“Anywhere that uranium is found in the soil or in the bedrock there is a potential that radon as it breaks down, moves through the soil, it gets into homes,” said Phillips..

Don Potratz of the Town of Menasha wanted to get his house tested before finishing his basement.

“I got a test kit from the town and tested it, sent it in and found out the level was I want to say 35,” said Potratz.

Health officials recommend taking action if your house tests higher than level four.

“I know in this area a lot of places do have the radon, but I was a little surprised at the level,” said Potratz.

“People aren't aware and we'd like every home in the county tested if we can do that,” said Phillips.

If your home tests high, you might be looking at an average of $700 to $900 for an air filtration system.

“For what it costs, it's a lot more comfort and secure knowing that we have safe levels in the house,” said Potratz.

“It takes time do its damage, but you have to look at your whole life exposure,” said Phillips.

Most health departments sell test kits, including Winnebago County for five dollars. They are also typically sold at hardware stores.