Homeowners are being encouraged to test their homes for Radon.
November is Radon Action Month and the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit says Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, after smoking.
Health officials say the risk of developing lung cancer from radon exposure depends mostly on three factors: the level of radon you are exposed to, the duration of exposure, and smoking habits.
Radon is a colourless, odourless, tasteless radioactive gas that occurs naturally in the environment. It comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in soils and rocks.
When it is released from the ground into the outdoor air, it is diluted and is not a concern. However, if it’s released in enclosed areas such as homes, it can accumulate to high levels and with long term exposure can cause a risk to health.
You can purchase a Radon test kit by contacting a local hardware store or other businesses.
