Radon
Radon is a radioactive gas produced naturally when uranium in soil and rock fragments.
It is invisible, odorless and tasteless.
When radon is emitted from the ground into outdoor air, it is diluted and poses no danger.
However, in enclosed spaces such as homes, it can accumulate to dangerous concentrations.
High radon levels can be a health risk for you and your family.
Source: Health Canada and Take Action on Radon
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What are the health effects of radon? When radon is inhaled into the lungs, it disintegrates into radioactive particles that emit small bursts of energy. This energy is absorbed by nearby lung tissue, damaging lung cells. When the cells are damaged, they can lead to cancer when they reproduce.
Radon is the 2nd leading cause of lung cancer.
3000 + people/year die from radon-induced lung cancer.
Source: Health Canada and Take Action on Radon
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How do we measure radon levels in our homes? - Using a PNCR-C-approved radon test kit.
- Leave the device in place for 91 days or more.
- Return the device to the laboratory and wait for your radon measurement report.
- If your radon concentration is high, measures are in place to mitigate it.
- The best time to take a radon test is during the heating season.
Source: Health Canada and Take Action on Radon
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How do I get a test kit? For those who have not been able to obtain a kit, you can also purchase a Health Canada-recognized detector at your own expense: https://takeactiononradon.ca/provinces/quebec/
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