Some of the highest levels of radon in New York State can be found in the Southern Tier.

About 54 percent of Tioga County residents have it in their homes, according to the health department.

Radon is an odorless, tasteless and invisible gas.

If it's in the ground, it can enter homes through cracks in the foundation.

Experts say being exposed to this chemical increases the risk of developing lung cancer.

So for Radon Action Month, health officials are encouraging all residents to test their homes for free through the New York State Healthy Neighborhoods Program.

"It's a defense system. It allows them to take control of their lives, and put the mitigation systems in and reduce the levels to a point where it becomes basically non-harmful,” said Al Knapp, Tioga County Public Health Sanitarian.

Broome County also participates in this program.

In order to schedule a radon test, call your county health department.