Radon is a radioactive gas that you can’t see, smell or taste which occurs naturally from the breakdown of uranium inside the earth
Outdoors it’s dispersed in the air without any harmful effects, but trapped inside a building, it can lead to health problems
How dangerous is it?
It’s estimated that 20,000 lung cancer deaths are caused each year by radon, making it the second leading cause of lung cancer.
Radon-induced lung cancer costs the United States over $2 billion dollars per year in both direct and indirect health care costs.
According to the EPA, one in 15 homes in the United States has elevated radon levels over 4 pCi/L. That level presents approximately 35 times as much radiation as the Nuclear Regulatory Commission would allow if that family were standing next to the fence of a radioactive waste site.
How do I know if my home has radon?
You don’t know if you have a problem unless you test.
Radon test kits that meet EPA requirements are available at local hardware stores and home improvement stores, and typically cost less than $25.
What then?
The National Safety Council, a non-profit organization, operates the Radon Fix-It Program free of charge.
Through their toll free number 800-644-6999, they’ll provide referrals to technical experts, information on reducing elevated radon levels, guidelines for choosing a test kit or a testing company, and information about testing in connection with a real estate transaction.
The Council also provide lists of contractors certified by the National Environmental Health Association and/or the National Radon Safety Board who are qualified to offer advice and perform radon mitigation.
In addition to the National Safety Council, the EPA’s Web site http://www.epa.gov/radon also has general information about radon.
Through their toll free number 800-644-6999, they’ll provide referrals to technical experts, information on reducing elevated radon levels, guidelines for choosing a test kit or a testing company, and information about testing in connection with a real estate transaction.
The Council also provide lists of contractors certified by the National Environmental Health Association and/or the National Radon Safety Board who are qualified to offer advice and perform radon mitigation.
