Radon-- A Realistic Concern

 Radon is an odorless, tasteless gas that occurs naturally. It is found in soil & water throughout the US. Once radon gets into the air, people breathe it in. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, killing over 20,000 Americans per year. Smokers are affected roughly 10 times more often than non-smokers. There are no known short-term health effects or symptoms.

Radon can get into any kind of building— regardless of age, energy efficiency, or presence of a basement. It often enters through cracks, gaps, etc. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that 1 in 15 homes are impacted. Certain rock formations increase the likelihood of radon within our area. Since radon levels can vary greatly, testing your home is the only way to know (even if your county isn't higher risk or your neighbor's home is fine).

Fortunately, radon testing is often both cheap & easy. For the most accurate results, read the kit’s directions. In general, test on the lowest level of your home in a heavily used room. Don’t test in kitchens or bathrooms. Keep windows & doors closed as much as possible while testing. Results are read in picocuries per liter (pCi/L).
- Average outside:  0.4pCi/L
- Average inside home: 1.3 pCi/L
- Consider fixing if levels are between 2 - 4pCi/L.
- Immediate repairs are needed if levels are 4 pCi/L or more.

Radon reduction systems are very effective in returning levels to an acceptable range. Choose a certified professional for any necessary repairs. Once cleared, re-test every two years.

When under construction, radon-resistant techniques can be done simply, effectively, & inexpensively. Even these buildings should be tested for radon once occupied, though.

Learn more at http://www.ncradon.org/Home.html or www.cancer.gov. Or, call Granville Vance Public Health’s Environmental Health Department for a free radon test kit or with questions (919-693-2688 or 252-492-5263).