(Pueblo, CO) – Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that is found in soils in Colorado that can make its way into homes and buildings. Since radon can cause cancer, all Coloradans are encouraged to test for radon and install mitigation systems when radon levels are above the recommended levels.
Those interested in testing their home for radon can pick up a home radon test kit at no cost from the Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment (PDPHE), located at 101 W. 9thStreet, while supplies last. A grant from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has allowed PDPHE to purchase 400 radon test kits for Pueblo County residents.
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that comes from the breakdown of uranium in the soil. In Colorado, about half the homes have radon levels higher than the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommended action level of four picocuries per liter (pCi/L).
When a person is exposed to radon over many years the exposure can increase the risk of lung cancer. Radon is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, only smoking causes more lung cancer. Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer in people without a history of smoking.
There are several proven methods to reduce radon levels in the home, but the one primarily used is a vent pipe system and fan, which pulls radon from beneath the house and vents it to the outside. This system, known as a soil suction radon reduction system, does not require major changes to the home.
Sealing foundation cracks and other openings makes this system more effective and cost-efficient. Similar systems can also be installed in houses with crawl spaces.
More information about radon is available at pueblohealth.org/radon.
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