Last updated: June 2026
The Okanagan and BC Interior are among Canada's higher-radon regions, and BC CDC and Interior Health data show a large share of Interior homes above Health Canada's 200 Bq/m³ action level. Reports cite roughly 30% or more across the Interior Health area, with higher readings in parts of West Kelowna and Peachland. Testing is the only way to know your home's level.
Why is the Okanagan high in radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas produced as uranium in soil and rock breaks down. The geology of the BC Interior releases more radon than many other parts of Canada, and Okanagan homes can trap it indoors, especially in lower levels and basements. That combination of geology and housing is why the region consistently shows elevated readings.
What does the BC CDC and Interior Health data show?
BC Centre for Disease Control (BC CDC) and Interior Health radon data place the Interior among the higher-risk regions in the province, with a large share of tested homes above the action level. Parts of West Kelowna and Peachland have shown higher readings than the regional average. These are the figures we rely on, and we point homeowners to the official BC CDC radon map and Interior Health resources.
What is Health Canada's radon action level?
Health Canada's action level is 200 Bq/m³. Homes above it should be mitigated within two years, or within one year if the level is over 600 Bq/m³. The action level is a guideline for when to act, not a line between safe and unsafe, since lower levels still carry some risk.
Why does radon matter for your health?
Health Canada identifies radon as the second-leading cause of lung cancer after smoking. The risk comes from long-term exposure, so reducing a high level now protects you and your household for years. This page explains the risk plainly and without alarm: the point is simply that high radon is fixable.
How do I find out my home's level?
Test. The RDCO and Interior Health offer free radon test kits, and certified testing is also available. If your result is above 200 Bq/m³, mitigation with Active Soil Depressurization typically cuts radon by 90% or more. See Radon Testing and How Radon Mitigation Works.
Cited sources
- Health Canada: radon action level (200 Bq/m³) and lung-cancer risk
- BC Centre for Disease Control (BC CDC): provincial radon data and map
- Interior Health: regional radon information and free test kits
- Regional District of Central Okanagan (RDCO): free test-kit program
Explore more: Radon Testing · Radon Mitigation · Cost · FAQ · Areas We Serve
Live in the Okanagan? Find out your number and fix it if it is high. Call (236) 506-3301 or get a free quote.