Did you know radon, an odorless, tasteless, radioactive gas, is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States?
Additionally, between 1990-2019, almost 30% of homes and buildings in Gwinnett tested positive for elevated rates of radon.
The Environmental Protection Agency has designated January as National Radon Action Month, and we want to help you become better aware of this important health issue and learn how to test for it in your home.
What is Radon?
Radon occurs naturally when uranium breaks down to form radon. Uranium is often found in high concentrations in granite and rocky soils. Radon is released into the soil and can easily enter a home through the foundation and well water. It can build up to dangerous levels inside homes, schools, and other buildings.
- Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, after tobacco smoke.
- Radon kills nearly 21,000 people each year, more than 800 of them in Georgia.
- Smokers are at an even higher risk of radon-induced lung cancer than nonsmokers.
Testing Your Home for Radon
A short-term radon test kit should be hung in the lowest lived-in part of your home (basement or first floor) for 3-7 days. Instructions for using the kit will be shipped with the kit.
Upon sending the test in to the lab, you will receive a result that is the average radon level your test detected during the testing period. Your test result should come with instructions on the next steps you should take, if needed.
We frequently help homeowners with abatement of radon in the home, and would be happy to discuss solutions if your home tests positive for elevated levels.
Get a Discount on a Home Radon Test Kit
Test your home and protect your health by visiting this website to order a $15 radon test kit.
Use coupon code NRAM2021 for a $5 online discount during the month of January.
For more information, contact Ines Beltran at 678.377.4014 or Ines.Beltran@GwinnettCounty.com.
