ROCKFORD – State Senator Steve Stadelman (D-Rockford) is reminding Rockford residents of the importance of early detection of radon and urges people to test their homes for this harmful gas during Radon Action Month.

“People are spending more time inside as the cold winter months and the public health crisis both continue,” Stadelman said. “Extended exposure to radon has the potential to cause lung cancer, so we must continue to raise awareness around this silent killer.”

Radon gas is one of the leading causes of lung cancer in the nation, according to the U.S. Surgeon General. Statistics show radon has been found in nearly 40% of homes tested in Illinois. Cities located in the central and northern regions, like Rockford, are shown to have higher levels of radon in the soil.

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas. This odorless, colorless, tasteless gas comes from the natural breakdown of the soil, and it enters buildings through small cracks in the foundation, sump pits, crawl spaces, floor drains and more. If not properly mitigated, radon gas can reach drastically high levels and cause major health concerns.

The Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) and the American Lung Association in Illinois are hosting two statewide contests that urge students to use their creative talents to promote radon awareness. High school students are invited to submit a 30-second commercial style video, and middle school students can design a poster to urge residents to test their homes for radon. For more information and to enter, click here.

“Not only is this a great opportunity to raise awareness around radon exposure, but it also gives students the chance to be creative,” Stadelman said.

For more information about radon, visit www.radon.illinois.gov. Information is also available through IEMA’s Radon Hotline at 800-325-1245.