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What is Radon?
Radon is a radioactive, colorless and odorless gas that occurs from the natural
breakdown of uranium in the soil. Its decaying byproducts (progeny) can emit toxic
particles if inhaled. In fact, the U.S. Surgeon General has warned that radon is the
second-leading cause of lung cancer deaths.
Radon concentrations can be found in areas with rocks that contain uranium, granite,
shale or phosphates and can also be released from soils contaminated with some
industrial wastes. While natural radon gas in the open air is so minimal it doesn't
pose a health risk, concentrations in confined spaces (such as your basement)
can become a health hazard.
Testing for Radon in your home.
Radon is estimated to cause many thousands of lung cancer related deaths each year.
The EPA & Surgeon General recommends radon testing for all homes below the third floor
as nearly 1 in 15 homes in the US has a high level of indoor radon.
While commercial testing services are available, you can opt for an immediate and
less costly approach - purchase a home radon testing kit, with measures radon
levels for periods of up to 90 days.
There are a variety of radon testing kits available for under $20, though you will
need to send the results to a lab for analysis. This is usually included the purchase
price.
7 Simple Steps to Test for Radon in your home.
Radon testing is inexpensive and easy - millions of Americans have already done it.
It will only take a few minutes of your time.
 | Purchase a radon test kit at your favorite hardware store or from the Internet.
Make sure that it is an EPA-approved test kit. |
| Close all windows and doors for at least 12 hours prior to using the test kit. |
| Place the test kit in your basement or at the lowest level in your home.
Place it in the center, about 2-5 feet above the floor. Do not put the kit in the
bathroom or kitchen or near heat source or in a draft as these will affect the
measurement. |
| Leave the kit as directed (usually 2-90 days). |
| Reseal the kit after the specified period and send it to the lab as
directed in the instructions. |
| Await notification of the results. Retest if your results showed a high level of
radon. |
| Consider engaging the services of an EPA-certified testing service provider if
the 2nd test confirms the first test results. |
You and your loved ones spent most of your time at home - where you are most likely
to be exposed to radon gas.
There are simple ways to fix a radon problem that aren't too costly.
But you need to know if your home is affected by radon first.
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