Providence, RI – As Thanksgiving gatherings bring families together across Rhode Island, health experts are warning of an invisible and deadly threat that could be lurking inside homes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) say radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, becomes especially dangerous this time of year as homes seal up against the cold.
Radon forms when uranium in rock, soil, and groundwater breaks down, releasing gas that seeps through foundation cracks, sump pumps, and crawl spaces. Because it’s odorless, tasteless, and colorless, it often goes undetected for years — until it causes serious health issues.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends taking action when radon levels reach 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher. Over time, exposure can lead to lung cancer, killing an estimated 21,000 Americans each year. In Rhode Island, geological conditions and older housing stock make many areas especially vulnerable.
Testing is the only way to know if your home is safe. Short-term radon kits — available online, at hardware stores, or through RIDOH — can detect elevated levels in just a few days. For homes with higher readings, licensed radon mitigation specialists can install vent systems that safely reduce exposure by up to 90%.
Officials say the Thanksgiving weekend is the perfect time to act. “You can’t smell it, you can’t see it — but it’s there,” said CDC health advisors. “Testing now could prevent cancer later.”
As families in Providence, Warwick, and Pawtucket gather indoors for the holidays, experts urge residents to make radon testing part of their winter safety checklist — a small step that could save lives.
