Radon is an invisible and odorless, naturally occurring, radioactive gas that seeps through the ground and into residential homes and other buildings alike. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. after cigarette smoking. Although inhalation of radon gas poses the greatest danger to human health, ingesting radon through drinking water is known to cause a risk of stomach cancer.
Radon is measured in picoCuries per liter (pCi/L). A radon indoor air test resulting with a number above 4 pCi/L indicates a high and unsafe level of radon in that particular environment. If a test is over 4 pCi/L we advise to run another test to verify the first result or contact a radon mitigation contractor.
The South Central Environmental Health Consortium (SCEHC) takes calls and questions regarding radon and radon testing. You can purchase a radon kit from the SCEHC for $7.00.
The test kits are only available from November 1st through March 31st due to inaccuracies of the tests during spring and summer months. Note: One should read the instructions that come with the radon test kits to ensure accurate results.
The SCEHC also advises people to run two tests simultaneously at least four feet apart, this also helps the accuracy of testing.
For questions about radon in drinking water, radon mitigation, and radon contractors please see related links BELOW.
Public Health Office 
Sauk County West Square Building
Room #372
505 Broadway
Baraboo, WI 53913
Phone: (608) 355-3290
Fax: (608) 355-4329
PH Director - Cynthia Bodendein, RN, MSN
Home Care Deputy Director - Cathy Warwick BSN
Environmental Health Manager - Mitchell Lohr RS, BS
