Radon Still a Risk in Many Homes American Lung Association Says



The American Lung Association of Utah, is urging homeowners to start the New Year by having their homes tested for radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can enter homes through the soil or well water. Long-term exposure to radon is believed to cause 21,000 lung cancer deaths a year in the United States, and the Surgeon General has warned that radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States - second only to smoking. Funded by a grant from the Environmental Protection Agency, a limited number of free radon detection kits are being made available to Utah homeowners while supplies last.

Because radon is not regulated in Utah, it is up to owners to test their homes for the invisible, odorless gas. After leaving the kit in the home for a few days, the test kit is mailed to a laboratory for analysis and a report on radon levels will be sent back to the homeowner. Radon test kits are also sold at most hardware stores for less than $20. Look for kits certified by either the National Environmental Health Association (NEHA) or the National Radon Safety Board (NRSB).

Homes found to have elevated radon concentrations can easily be fixed by a qualified radon mitigation contractor. Repair options range from sealing cracks in floors and walls, changing the flow of air into the building, and depressurization systems that move radon away from the home to safely dissipate outdoors. In new homes, potential radon problems can be minimized through a few inexpensive changes during the first stages of home construction. Ask your builder for details or visit www.HealthHouse.org

Homeowners can call (801) 484-4456 or visit www.utahlung.org beginning on January 26, 2006 to get a free kit while supplies last.

January is National Radon Action Month. For more information, visit:

American Lung Association Health House program
www.healthhouse.org

Environmental Protection Agency
http://www.epa.gov/iaq/radon/index.html

American Lung Association radon fact sheet
http://www.lungusa.org/site/pp.aspc=dvLUK9O0E&b=35420





Radon Still a Risk in Many Homes American Lung Association Says