Radon is a cancer-causing, radioactive gas.

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You can't see, smell, or taste radon...but it may be a problem in your home.

Radon is estimated to cause 21,000 deaths each year. That's because when you breathe air containing radon, you have a chance of developing lung cancer. In fact, the Surgeon General has warned that radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States today. Only smoking causes more lung cancer deaths. If you smoke and your home has high radon levels, your risk of lung cancer is especially high.

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Radon can be found all over the US.

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Radon comes from the natural (radioactive) breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water and eventually enters the air you breathe. Radon can be found all over the U.S. and in any type of building...homes, offices, and schools are all subject to high indoor radon levels. But you and your family are most likely to get your greatest exposure at home, where you spend most of your time.

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You should test for Radon.

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Testing is the only way to know if you and your family are at risk from radon. The EPA and the Surgeon General recommend testing all homes below the third floor for radon. The EPA also recommends testing in schools.

Testing is inexpensive and easy - it should only take a few minutes of your time. Millions of Americans have already tested their homes for radon.

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You can fix a radon problem.

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Radon reduction systems work and they are not too costly. Some radon reduction systems can reduce radon levels in your home by up to 99%. Even very high levels can be reduced to acceptable levels.

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How does radon get into your home?

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Radon is a radioactive gas. It comes from the natural decay of uranium that is found in nearly all soils. It typically moves up through the ground to the air above and into your home through cracks and other holes in the foundation. Your home traps radon inside, where it can build up. Any home may have a radon problem. This means new and old homes, well-sealed and drafty homes, and homes with or without basements.

Radon from soil gas is the main cause of radon problems. Sometimes radon enters the home through well water. In a small number of homes, the building materials can give off radon, too. However, building materials rarely cause radon problems by themselves.

Nearly 1 out of every 15 homes in the U.S. is estimated to have elevated radon levels. Elevated levels of radon gas have been found in homes in your state. Testing is the only way to know your home is safe.

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