RADON THE SILENT KILLER

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January is Radon Action Month. To quote the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, “Radon (Rn) is a gaseous radioactive element that occurs from the natural breakdown of uranium in the soil and rocks. It is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. Radon becomes a risk indoors because as it continues to break down, it emits atomic particles that upon entering the lungs can alter the DNA and increase lung cancer risk. In fact, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the nation and is classified as a "Class A" carcinogen according to EPA.”

Signs of Radon Poisoning-

• Persistent cough

• Hoarseness

• Wheezing

• Shortness of breath

• Coughing up blood

• Chest pain

• Frequent infections like bronchitis and pneumonia

• Fatigue

What is a safe Radon level? According to Radon.org Dallas County Missouri is in Zone 2 with moderate statewide Radon levels. The World Health Organization recommends that buildings with radon levels of 2.7 pCi/L or greater be mitigated.

You can take steps to reduce and monitor the amount of radon in your home. Testing is the only way to determine radon levels.

How can you test for Radon at home? I personally have this smart system,

https://amzn.to/3WKoRZT . This system is great because it connects to my smart phone and I can check the radon levels in my basement anytime I want through the app. If I wave my hand over the sensor in my basement it easily tells me by color where the level is, green= good, yellow= moderate levels, red= high dangerous levels. A smart test system gives me peace of mind that my children are safe playing in our home.

Ready to test your home? Here is an inexpensive at home test you can buy on Amazon, https://amzn.to/3VRyox0. Or a plug-in Radon tests such as this one, https://amzn.to/3jZEJJC.

In the state of Missouri, residents can request a FREE test kit at, https://drhomeair.fmbetterforms.com/#/missouri-free .

Buying or selling a home in Missouri- Though testing is a good idea for long-term health protection, there are no laws in Missouri that require Radon testing or mitigation by the seller. When ordering a home inspection, ask the company if they offer Radon testing and seek further information from a reliable and professional source.

Sources: Radon | Health & Senior Services (mo.gov), Radon in Missouri - International Radon Association

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