Portland, ME – As winter grips Maine and temperatures remain below freezing, health officials are urging residents—especially in Portland and surrounding communities—to be aware of a serious indoor health threat that cannot be seen, smelled, or felt. January marks National Radon Action Month, highlighting the dangers of radon gas, often 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 that forms underground and can seep into homes through foundation cracks, basements, crawl spaces, and sump pumps. In Maine, radon risk is considered moderate to high, with elevated levels detected in homes across Cumberland County and other parts of the state.
Health officials say winter creates the perfect conditions for radon buildup. Homes in Portland and across Maine are tightly sealed to retain heat, trapping radon indoors for prolonged periods. Long-term exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer nationwide, responsible for an estimated 21,000 deaths each year.
Unlike carbon monoxide, radon does not cause immediate symptoms. Medical experts warn that the damage occurs slowly over time, making home testing the only reliable way to detect exposure. Smokers face a significantly higher risk, but non-smokers are also vulnerable.
State health officials recommend that all Maine residents test their homes, particularly during winter when radon levels are most concentrated. Test kits are affordable and mitigation systems can dramatically reduce radon levels when elevated readings are found.
As National Radon Action Month continues, officials say testing now could prevent serious health consequences later.
