OKANOGAN Health agencies throughout the country warn that radon exposure is the leading cause of lung cancer for non-smokers.
In Okanogan County, the average is 5.3 picocuries per liter; the Ferry County average is 5.8, according to the state Radon Outreach Program.
The average indoor radon level nationally is 1.3 picocuries per liter. A picocurie is a measurement of radioactivity.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the “action level” for taking action on radon reduction is 4 picocuries per liter.
The American Lung Association, Centers for Disease Control and National Cancer Institute all agree that radon is a national health problem and encourage radon testing during an October awareness drive.
Radon is a naturally occurring, invisible and odorless radioactive gas. One in 15 American homes contains high levels of radon.
Do-it-yourself and professional testing is available.
Mitigation measures can be taken to vent radon from a home.