As a homeowner, you are likely aware of several sources of home pollution. Radon is one of the most dangerous substances that can sneak into your house. Use this guide to understand the dangers of this contaminant and what you can do to prevent its harmful effects.

What is radon?

Radon is a gas that is produced by decaying uranium. This means that it is largely present in soil and sometimes in the air. Radon is odorless, colorless, and radioactive.

What are the harmful effects of radon?

Radon can cause lung cancer, especially if an individual is exposed to the gas for long periods of time. In fact, this substance is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States.

How can I know if radon is in my home?

There are various tests you can perform to determine whether radon is present in your home. First, you can purchase a short term test at a hardware stores. This test will measure radon content for 2 to 7 days. You can also purchase a long term test that will measure radon levels for 90 days to a year. Finally, you can purchase electronic monitors for your home, much like you have for fire and carbon monoxide.

What if my home has a high radon content?

The first step you should take is to call professional radon mitigation services. They will recommend ventilation options to remove the radon and control your home’s internal environment. This may include installing a sump pump and improving ventilation overall.

What can I do to prevent radon in my home?

There are several steps you can take to guard your home against radon contamination. To start, it’s best to seal any openings in your foundation with caulk. But the best steps you can take to prevent radon contamination is to keep your sump pump in good condition and to perform regular radon testing. Work with your community to understand what is radon and how you can prevent it from entering your homes.

Protecting your family from radon is simple when taking the right steps. By working with qualified professionals and communicating with your local health officials, you can make your home and community safe places to live.