Facts About Home Radon

Facts About Home Radon

Several threats are found at home. Many think that they are way off harm’s way because of how careful they are at home. We have to be more cautious though, because there are dangers at home that we may not be aware of. One of the dangers at home that are often neglected is the radon. It is important that we learn about the important facts of radon because it has been one of the leading causes of lung cancer in the US. It has also brought both direct and indirect health problems.

Understanding radon:

In order to better understand its threats, we need to understand what radon is. First, it is a cancer-causing gas. It is colorless and odorless, which makes it very difficult to detect. This is also among the reasons why many are ignoring its existence. Some do not even know that they have been exposed to it until the cancer symptoms are starting to show.

Radon is naturally harmless especially when released outdoors and diffuses. It only becomes a threat when it enters the house. The condensed gas and its accumulated amount can lead to lung cancer.

Dealing with radon:

The said gas will not exempt you from exposure because you are more careful with the items you bring at home. The best way to deal with it is to test if your home is exposed to it. You can use testing kits available in the market or you can hire a professional. Hiring one is recommended when there is high risk of contamination in your area. However, if there is a low chance of exposure, then you can do the testing yourself.

In order to choose the right detection tool, familiarize the different types of radon testing devices. It can be passive or active. If you want to use a device that does not use electricity, then go with the passive devices. Such devices include the charcoal canister as well as the charcoal liquid scintillation device. It also has alpha track detectors. The said devices are readily available in local hardware. You might also encounter electret ion devices. Unlike the above-mentioned types of devices, this device is only available in laboratories.

You have to follow the instruction found at the label of the device diligently. This is to make sure that the test is properly executed. Once you have finished conducting the test, you will be required to mail the sample using the return address found in the kit. The laboratory indicated will conduct the analysis and will inform you of the results.

Once the result reveals a contamination of your home, the laboratory will give you options so that you will know how to get rid of them. Normally, the experts will deal with that. According to experts, the best way to deal with radon is to depressurize the surrounding soil. You cannot do this on your own, which is why you will need to work with professionals.

Radon can bring serious troubles at home. This is why you have to take it seriously and have your home tested. Detection is essential for a safer and healthier living.