Radon Gas
What is radon gas?
Radon is an inert, colorless, odorless gas that is found at varying levels across the country. The gas is caused by a radioactive breakdown of naturally occurring uranium in rocks and soil. Outdoors radon disperses rapidly and generally is not a health issue. Radon gas can, however, seep into your home and become trapped creating opportunities for exposure.
Why should I be concerned about radon?
Three Rivers District is considered to be a “high karst” area. (Karst is defined as an area made up of limestone.) The map shows Three Rivers counties to range in risk of radon from mild danger to more danger.
Breathing radon over time increases your risk of lung cancer. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. Nationally, the EPA estimates that about 21,000 people die each year from radon-related lung cancer. Only smoking causes more lung cancer deaths.
How do I know if I am at risk of exposure?
Because any building can have high levels of radon, it is important to test your home. Testing is easy and free kits are available at your local health department.
For more information on your risk for Radon watch this brief video from the CDC
What if my home has radon in it?
While there are no safe levels of radon, the Environmental Protection Agency recommends that any home with levels of 4pC/L (picoCuries per liter) or above should have actions taken to reduce the levels. Certified contractors can reduce radon to acceptable levels through mitigation practices such as sealing cracks in foundations.
- Published: September 14, 2021
- Page reviewed/updated: August 16, 2023
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