|

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.


 |
 |
|
|
|