Radon Brochures from the EPA
All About Radon
What is Radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring gas that is emitted as uranium breaks down in the soil. It is odorless, colorless and tasteless. Everyone in the United States has some level of radon gas in their home. There is a very low level of radon even in the outside air that we breathe.
Can it harm me and my family?
YES! The EPA has determined radon gas to be the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. (after the act of smoking).
Any house testing at or over 4 picocuries(pCi)
Pronounced: pee-coe-cure-ees
Definition: Measurement of radioactivity. One picocurie is one million millionth, or a trillionth, of a curie and equals 0.037 becquerel, and represents about 2.2 radioactive particle disintegrations per minute. Hide
per liter needs to be fixed per EPA recommendations.
The radioactive particles in the gas attach to your lung tissue and break down which can lead to cancer over the course of your lifetime. The amount of time between your exposure and the onset of cancer may be many years.
If you have smoked, or are a smoker, you are at greater risk for developing lung cancer. Children tend to be at a higher risk for developing cancer as well according to EPA radon information.
How does it get into my home?
Because it is a gas, radon seeps into your home through small cracks and holes in foundations, crawlspaces and slabs.
All types of homes are susceptible, 2 story homes, colonials, bi-levels and ranchers.
Even houses with walk-out basements, crawlspaces or slabs can have a radon problem.
How can I determine my radon level?
Testing is the only way to determine your radon level. You may do your own test or have a professional company perform one for you. Don't be fooled into thinking that your house will have levels the same as your neighbor's - radon levels vary from house to house.
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