Washington State Students Invited to Participate in 2026 Northwest Radon Poster Contest
OLYMPIA — The Washington state Department of Health (DOH) is encouraging students aged 9 to 14 to unleash their creativity and raise awareness about radon gas thru the 2026 Northwest Radon Poster Contest. This annual contest aims to educate the next generation about the dangers of radon exposure and the importance of testing homes.
What is Radon and Why is it Perilous?
Radon is a naturally occurring, radioactive gas that comes from the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It’s invisible, odorless, and tasteless, making it a silent threat to indoor air quality. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, responsible for an estimated 21,000 deaths each year.
Because you can’t see or smell radon, the only way to know if you have elevated levels in your home is to test for it. The EPA recommends that all homes be tested for radon, regardless of age or location.
About the Northwest Radon Poster Contest
The Northwest Radon Poster Contest is a collaborative effort between the Washington State DOH, along with health agencies in Idaho, Oregon, and Alaska. The contest provides a platform for students to learn about radon and communicate its risks to their families and communities through artistic expression.
Contest Details:
- Eligibility: Students aged 9 to 14 as of January 1, 2026.
- Entry Deadline: Typically in February, though the exact date for 2026 has not yet been announced. Check the Washington State DOH radon Program website for updates.
- Poster Requirements: Posters must be 18×24 inches and focus on radon awareness.
- Prizes: Winners are recognized at the state and regional levels, with prizes awarded for creativity, originality, and clarity of message.
How to Participate
Students interested in participating should work with their teachers or parents to develop a poster that effectively communicates the dangers of radon and encourages testing. the Washington State DOH provides resources to help students learn about radon, including educational materials and details on radon testing.
Resources for Students and Educators:
- EPA’s Radon for Kids: A kid-pleasant website with information about radon.
- Washington State DOH Radon Education Materials: Posters, brochures, and other resources.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Radon Information: Comprehensive information on radon health risks and mitigation.
Radon Testing and Mitigation in Washington State
Washington State has a higher average radon level than the national average, making radon testing especially important. The DOH encourages all homeowners to test their homes for radon. Radon test kits are readily available at hardware stores and online retailers.
If a home tests high for radon,mitigation systems can be installed to reduce radon levels. these systems typically involve venting radon gas from beneath the foundation to the outside. The DOH website provides a list of certified radon mitigation professionals in Washington State.
Understanding Radon Levels
The EPA has established an action level of 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) of air. If your home’s radon level is at or above 4 pCi/L, the EPA recommends taking steps to reduce it. Even levels between 2 pCi/L and 4 pCi/L warrant consideration of mitigation.
Key Takeaways
- Radon is a dangerous, invisible gas that can cause lung cancer.
- Testing is the only way to know if your home has elevated radon levels.
- The Northwest Radon Poster Contest is a great way for students to learn about radon and raise awareness.
- Radon mitigation systems are effective at reducing radon levels in homes.
- Washington State has higher than average radon levels, making testing crucial.
By participating in the 2026 Northwest Radon Poster Contest, students can play a vital role in protecting their families and communities from the dangers of radon exposure. The washington State Department of Health encourages all eligible students to participate and spread the word about this important public health issue.
