January is Radon Awareness Month: Protect Your Home and Health
What is Radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms from the decay of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, making it impossible to detect without specialized equipment. Radon can seep into homes through cracks in floors, walls, and foundations, accumulating to dangerous levels indoors.
As January marks Radon Awareness Month, it's the perfect time to learn about this hazardous gas and take steps to protect your family’s health. It’s easy to test for Radon and I can conduct the test for you, to help keep you safe.
Why is Radon Dangerous?
Exposure to high levels of radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, after smoking. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radon is responsible for about 21,000 lung cancer deaths annually. The risk is even higher for smokers exposed to radon.
Because radon has no immediate symptoms, people can live with dangerous levels of radon in their homes for years without realizing the potential harm. Over time, prolonged exposure increases the likelihood of developing lung cancer.
How to Test for Radon
Testing your home for radon is the only way to know if you and your family are at risk. Fortunately, radon testing is simple and affordable. Here are the steps you can take:
Purchase a Radon Test Kit: Home radon test kits are available online or at hardware stores. Look for kits that are certified by the EPA or your state’s radon program.
Hire a Professional: For more accurate or detailed results, consider hiring a certified radon measurement professional. I am InterNACHI certified to conduct radon testing and have the equipment to do so.
Follow the Instructions Carefully: Whether using a kit or professional service, ensure the test is conducted properly, typically over a period of 2-7 days.
What to Do If Your Home Has High Radon Levels
Utah is located in EPA Zones 1 & 2, which means the average radon levels are between 2 and greater than 4 pCi/L. If your test results show radon levels of 4 pCi/L (picocuries per liter) or higher, the EPA recommends taking action to reduce radon levels. A radon mitigation system can be installed to vent radon gas outside your home. These systems are highly effective and can significantly reduce radon exposure.
Take Action Today
Radon Awareness Month is a reminder to prioritize the health and safety of your home. Testing your home for radon can give you peace of mind and potentially save lives.
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