Have you ever heard of Radon? If you haven’t, you’re not alone! Radon is a naturally occurring gas that is known to be harmful. However, since so few people are aware of the invisible gas, it often flies under the radar.
During National Radon Action Month (January) the Tuscarawas County Health Department and Newsymom hope to bring awareness to the presence of Radon and the dangers of being exposed to it.
What is Radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that comes from the decay of radioactive metals in rocks, soil & groundwater. This colorless, odorless and tasteless gas moves up through the ground and into our homes through cracks or other holes in the foundation. Nearly 1 out of every 15 homes in the U.S. is estimated to have elevated levels of Radon according to the EPA.
What you need to know..
- The amount of Radon in any given home depends on a number of factors including soil chemistry & moisture, weather and even the amount of suction within the home. High levels of radon are known to be harmful.
- According to the EPA’s Radon Zone Map; Ohio is in the red zone, meaning we have a high potential for radon levels to be elevated.
- Radon exposure is the second leading cause for lung cancer, right behind smoking.
- Testing is crucial and there are ways to reduce Radon levels. Radon is measured “picocuries per liter of air,” or “pCi/L.”
Testing for radon is relatively easy.
At home test kits can be found online or in some hardware stores, but there are professionals available for testing if that’s preferable. The EPA’s recommendations for testing your home for Radon are as follows..
- Take a short term test. If the results of the short term test show radon levels of 4pCi/L or higher, take a follow up test.
- The results of the first short term test will help you determine your next step. If the first test results show extremely high levels (more than double the EPA’s action level of 4pCi/L), a second short term test should be taken immediately. If the results are closer to the action threshold, you’ll want to take a long term test to get a better understanding of year round levels.
- If you see results of greater than 4pCi/L, take action to lower the levels of Radon in your home.
Taking Action
The most effective way to reduce Radon levels in a home is through a pipe vent & fan system that pulls the gas from underneath the house to the outside of the house. The vent system can be different depending on the build of the home, some can even be installed in crawl spaces. These systems don’t often require major changes to your home and usually don’t cost more than most home renovations. However, it is best to have a qualified professional do the job.
Lowering radon levels requires specific knowledge and skills. A qualified contractor can identify the source of the Radon and find the best way to vent your home. You can find a qualified professional here.
Resources, support, more information.
- A Citizen’s Guide to Radon is a great resource for a better understanding of Radon and what to do about it.
- Radon FAQs
- Toll free hotlines: 1-800-SOSRADON (1-800-767-7236):Purchase Radon test kits by phone. 1-800-55RADON (557-2366): Get live help for your radon questions.
- If you have concerns about your health related to the air quality in your home, please consult your care provider. If you do not have a primary care provider, the Tuscarawas County Health department is always accepting new patients. Call 330-343-5555, ext. 1810 to make an appointment.