Radon | Multimedial Programs

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What is Radon?

Radon is a radioactive gas that comes from the natural decay of uranium that is found in nearly all soils. It moves up through the ground to the air above and into your home through:

Cracks in solid floors;
Construction joints;
Cracks in walls;
Gaps in suspended floors;
Gaps around service pipes; and
Cavities inside walls.

Radon can also be a problem in schools and workplaces.

How are states in Region 6 addressing Radon?

The Arkansas Department of Health provides technical assistance to homeowners regarding Radon testing and mitigation services.

The Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals provides technical assistance to homeowners regarding Radon testing.

The New Mexico Environment Department provides technical assistance to homeowners, real estate agents, and builders regarding Radon testing and mitigation. They have coordinated seminars for builders and home inspectors at local community colleges promoting Radon-resistance in new construction. Most of the schools in New Mexico have been tested for radon. The New Mexico Environment Department offers Radon detection kits to homeowners in New Mexico.

The Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality provides technical assistance to homeowners, real estate agents, home inspectors, and builders regarding Radon testing and mitigation. They have made presentations to science teachers in Oklahoma City and Miami regarding Radon testing science projects. They provided free Radon detectors for students to test their homes.

The Texas Department of State Health Services provides technical assistance and free Radon canisters to homeowners. They have been testing various school districts for Radon over the past three years.

How can I test my home?

It's easy to find out if you have a radon problem in your home. There are many kinds of low-cost "do-it-yourself" radon test kits you can order by mail or purchase in some hardware stores and other retail outlets. If you cannot find a kit in a store near you, call 1-800-SOS-RADON. A coupon will be sent to you that can be used to order a kit. If you are buying or selling a home, you may consider hiring a qualified professional to test for you. Contact your State radon office about potential problems in your area and to obtain a list of qualified testers.

State Radon Contacts:

Arkansas Department of Health Mr. Bernie Bevill 501-661-2301 or 800-482-5400 Email: bernard.bevill@arkansas.gov	http://www.healthyarkansas.com
Louisiana Dept. of Health and Hospitals Ms. Melanie Wearing 225-342-7136 or 888-293-7020 Email: mwearing@dhh.la.gov	http://www.dhh.state.la.us/
New Mexico Environment Department Mr. Michael Taylor 505-827-1093	http://www.nmenv.state.nm.us/
Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality Ms. Keisha Cornelius 405-702-5100	http://www.deq.state.ok.us/
Texas Department of State Health Services Mr. Quade Stahl 512-834-6600 x 2444	http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/radiation/radon.shtm

Where can I find more information on radon?

For the latest radon news, links to publications, frequently asked questions, hotlines, and more, visit EPA's National Radon website

For information about the EPA Region 6 Radon Program, contact Mr. George Brozowski by phone at (214) 665-8541 or by e-mail

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