Radon
Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that is emitted as a result of the natural decay of uranium in the soil. Radon is found all over the United States in varying levels. Sources of radon include soil and rock, well water and some building materials.
Breathing in radon gas can increase the risk of lung cancer. In fact, the U.S. Surgeon General has warned that radon is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the United States—only smoking causes more lung cancer deaths. If you smoke and your home has high radon levels, your risk of lung cancer is especially high.
Testing is the only way to know if you and your family are being exposed to radon in your home. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Surgeon General recommend testing all homes below the third floor for radon. The EPA also recommends testing in schools. If you are interested in purchasing a radon test kit, an order form is available through Hennepin County.
For more information, call your state radon contact or the National Radon Information Line at 1.800.SOS.RADON (1.800.767.7236).
If you have tested your home and found radon, and need information on how to correct the problem, call the National Radon Fix-It Program.
