Have you tested your home for radon gas?

(NC) Whether you own your home or rent it, the safety of your living space is essential. One challenge is that not every risk to your home is obvious. Some you may not be aware of, and others, such as radon gas, are invisible. If you haven’t tested your home’s radon levels yet, here’s why you should:

How does radon get into your home? Radon gas is produced from uranium decaying underground. The air pressure inside your home is usually lower than the surrounding soil, which draws air and other gasses, including radon, up and into the home. All homes in Canada have radon, but levels vary from one house to another—the only way to know your home’s level is to test.

Why is radon gas dangerous? The danger comes when it’s allowed to build up high levels indoors. Exposure to high levels of radon increases the risk of lung cancer significantly. In fact, it’s the number one cause of lung cancer in non-smokers in Canada. It’s also on the rise: over the last decade, household radon levels across the country have been increasing, possibly due to better sealing for home energy efficiency. Recent data shows high levels in one in five Canadian homes.

What can homeowners do? Testing for radon is easy: you just need a do-it-yourself test kit or an electronic radon monitor. Your home’s levels rise and fall over time, so doing a long-term test over three months will let you estimate your annual exposure. Here are some tips for optimal testing:

• Put the device on the lowest lived-in level of the home, such as a finished basement, family room or playroom.
• Use a flat surface, or hang it on the wall or from the ceiling, keeping it between half a metre and two metres off the floor.
• Avoid installing it near windows, vents, doors and exterior walls. Don’t put the device in kitchens, laundry rooms, closets or unfinished basements.
• Leave the device alone for at least three months—set a reminder to check it at that time, so you don’t forget.

If the testing shows a high level of radon it can be fixed. A certified professional can install a radon reduction system in just one to two days. The system works by giving radon gas an easier path to escape outdoors. It costs less to install than replacing a furnace or air conditioner and can reduce radon levels in your home by up to 90 per cent.

The danger of radon is real, but by testing for it and taking action to reduce the level in your home, protecting yourself is easier than you might think. Learn more at takeactiononradon.ca.