Fast Facts About Radon

Radon is a hidden threat that is lurking in many homes nationwide. Because it is an odorless, colorless, and tasteless gas that occurs naturally in many environments across the country, many homeowners are at risk without even knowing it.

The best way to arm yourself against the threat of radon is by educating yourself about this particular element so you are aware of the threats it possesses. So, here are some fast facts our radon testing Denver CO experts put together to help educate you and prevent radon exposure!

1. Radon is derived from radium. 
   Radon is a gas derived from radium, and it is the heaviest known gas. It is radioactive, and at room temperature it is colorless. But when radon is cooled below its freezing point, it is phosphorescent.
2. It is everywhere.
   Radon gas is produced when radium decays. While there is a different concentration in different states nationwide, there is an estimated one gram of radium in every square mile of soil across the country. Since radon is everywhere, it is more important than ever to invest in radon mitigation and abatement services in your geographic area to ensure you are not at risk.
3. There are no physical symptoms of radon exposure.
   Unfortunately, there are no physical signs that a person is being exposed to radon, which makes it all that much more dangerous.
4. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer nationwide.
   According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Surgeon General’s Office, there are an estimated 20,000 lung cancer deaths caused every year by radon exposure. This means it is the second most common cause of lung cancer nationwide, right after cigarette smoking. Also, 10% of these radon-related cancer deaths happen in those who do not smoke at all.

 

5. Radon can be inhaled through many different channels.
   Radon is sneaky and can get into a home multiple different ways — through wires, consumed through water, by the cracks in the floor, walls, and foundation, as well as through plumbing pipes and sump pumps.

These fast facts about radon are here to help educate you and your family about the dangers of radon exposure in your home. If you have any additional questions about the threat of radon, please contact our radon testing Denver CO specialists today.