What you need to know about Radon Gas

What is Radon? Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas. It is naturally produced by the decay of uranium in soil and rock and then released into the air and water.

How can radon get into a home? Radon seeps into your home from the ground beneath it. It can also be released into your home from well water or building materials that contain radon. Because they are closer to the ground, basements and first floors typically have the highest radon levels.

Can radon get into a new home? Radon can enter any home, old or new, even those with no visible cracks. In fact, radon levels can be higher in newer, well insulated, tightly sealed homes. The only way to know if your home has elevated radon levels is to test for it.

How does radon cause cancer? Radon is the number one cause of lung cancer in nonsmokers. It decays quickly, breaking down into tiny radioactive particles. When inhaled, the particles can damage the cells that line the lungs and long-term exposure can lead to lung cancer.