About Radon

Radon is a cancer-causing radioactive gas that comes from the natural decay of uranium found in nearby soils, rock and water. Radon gets into the air you breathe. It is an odorless, colorless and tasteless gas that can cause problems in your home. Radon is estimated to cause many thousands of deaths each year. According to the National Academy of Science's Biological Effects of Ionizing Radiation or (BEIR) VI Report: "The Health Effects of Exposure to Indoor Radon," USEPA and the Surgeon General, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States today. Only smoking causes more lung cancer deaths. In 2003, EPA revised its risk assessment for radon in homes and estimated 23,000 lung cancer deaths per year due to radon exposure in homes.

Problems may arise when radon concentrations reach high levels in areas where people spend large amounts of time. Testing is the only way to know if you or your family may be at risk from high radon levels. EPA and the Office of the Surgeon General recommend that all homes below the third floor be tested for radon. EPA recommends mitigating homes with radon.