JANUARY IS RADON EDUCATION MONTH

 Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that comes from the natural (radioactive) breakdown of uranium in soil, rock and water.  Because it is a gas, it can be released into the air you breathe.  Although the amount of radon in outdoor air is low, radon can become concentrated indoors when drawn directly into a home from the soil through cracks and other holes in the foundation.  Radon itself breaks down into solid radioactive particles, called radon progeny, that remain suspended for a time, in the air.

 When inhaled, radon and radon progeny can cause damage to lung tissue that may eventually lead to lung cancer.  The greater the amount of radon in your home, the greater the risk to your health.  Therefore, it is important to test your home to find out if there is an unacceptable level of radon.  A radon problem can be easily fixed.  Doing so will reduce your health risk.

 For an information packet, contact Catherine R. Farrell, M.S., CHES, Director of Health Education at (973) 983-2899.