Radon gas can be found all over the country and is all around us. It is invisible and odorless and comes from the natural (radioactive) breakdown of uranium in soil, rock and water. Radon gets into the air you breathe and can get into any type of building including homes, offices, or schools - and when allowed to accumulate can result in a high indoor radon level. Families are most likely to get their greatest exposure at home, where most of their time is spent.
Why should Radon accumulation be concerning? Radon is believed to cause many thousands of deaths each year. The EPA estimates over 21,000 lung cancer deaths annually. In fact, the Surgeon General has warned that radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States today. Only smoking causes more lung cancer deaths. If you smoke and your home has high radon levels, your risk of lung cancer is especially high.
What's the bottom line? Finding out if your home has excess levels of radon is easy and if tests indicate that your home or a home you're contemplating purchasing has radon levels that exceed the EPA's guidelines (4.0 Pico's /L) don't panic, a qualified Radon mitigator can provide venting systems that can reduce levels below the EPA suggested levels.
Are you contemplating a home purchase? Interested in learning more about radon and other issues involved in the home buying process? Contact me. I can help.
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