Los Angeles, CA – As cooler winter nights settle across Southern California and homes remain closed up more often, health officials are warning residents—especially those in Los Angeles and surrounding communities—about a dangerous indoor health threat that often goes unnoticed. January marks National Radon Action Month, drawing attention to radon gas, commonly referred to as the “invisible killer” inside the home.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas released from soil and rock. It can seep into homes through foundation cracks, slab joints, crawl spaces, and utility openings. While Southern California is often perceived as lower risk compared to colder regions, officials say elevated radon levels have been detected in homes across Los Angeles County, the Inland Empire, and parts of San Diego and Riverside counties.
Health experts say even mild winter conditions can increase radon exposure. In Los Angeles and throughout Southern California, homes may remain sealed overnight during cooler periods, allowing radon to accumulate indoors over time. Long-term exposure to radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, responsible for an estimated 21,000 deaths each year. Smokers face the greatest risk, but non-smokers are also vulnerable.
Unlike carbon monoxide, radon exposure does not cause immediate symptoms. Medical professionals warn the damage occurs silently over many years, making home testing the only reliable way to detect elevated levels.
State and federal health officials recommend that Southern California residents test their homes, particularly during winter months. Test kits are affordable and widely available, and mitigation systems can significantly reduce radon levels when elevated readings are found.
As National Radon Action Month continues, officials urge Californians to test now to help protect their families from a serious but preventable health risk.
