Radon is a radioactive gas that comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. This subterranean gas is a Class A carcinogen. The scientific community and all major health organizations rank it as the 1st leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers, causing an estimated 21,000 U.S. deaths annually.
The EPA sets 4.0 pCi/L (pico-curies per liter of air) and higher as the “Action Level” for radon concentration. At this level, radon represents a real risk and action must be taken to reduce exposure. The EPA also recommends that you should “consider taking action” when the radon level exceeds 1.9 pCi/L. Radon levels between 2.0 pCi/L and 4.0 pCi/l also carry some risk over long term exposure. Lowering the radon level greatly reduces the risk of lung cancer.
The EPA recommends that all homes be tested for radon. If you are buying a new home or are not sure of the radon levels of your current home, it is important to test. Please contact us and we will happily discuss your testing options.