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Radon Poisoning
5 Ways to Reduce and Prevent Radon Poisoning
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Radon poisoning is very real. Many people hear of radon being a silent killer, but very few homeowners know exactly what this substance is and how it can affect their family’s health. Many people don’t realize the number of health dangers hidden in their homes.
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When radon is not removed from a home, it can cause a wide variety of dangerous health complications including a lingering cough, heart problems, lung infections, and even cancer.
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Here is a quick look at five things you need to know about radon including how to get rid of it.
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Radon Poisoning: Facts & Risk-Reduction Action to Take #1
It Is Invisible and Odorless
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Radon is a radioactive gas that leaks into homes through foundation cracks, pipes, and other openings.
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One of the reasons why it is so dangerous is because most people don’t know they have radon in their home until they start developing respiratory problems such as a sore throat that won’t seem to go away.
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Because radon is completely invisible and odorless, the only effective way to identify it is with a testing kit or through a radon testing company.
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Radon Poisoning: Facts & Risk-Reduction Action to Take #2
Radon Exposure Is a Pervasive Problem
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While some cities are worse than others, experts believe that around one in 15 homes throughout the USA have dangerous levels of radon.
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This gas has become such a pervasive problem that a number of government agencies are now investing millions into campaigns to raise awareness. There are also quite a few organizations that offer discounts and rebates for testing kits and mitigation systems.
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Radon Poisoning: Facts & Risk-Reduction Action to Take #3
Testing Kits Are Cheap and Easy to Use
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Even if you don’t think that you have radon in your home, you should still invest in at least a few testing kits. These kits are extremely affordable and can be purchased in most home improvement stores. They are generally placed strategically throughout a home for a few days before being sent off to a lab.
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Most experts suggest that homeowners test their property at least once every few years for this gas.
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Radon Poisoning: Facts & Risk-Reduction Action to Take #4
Most Radon Can Be Removed With Simple Upgrades
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Some homes require comprehensive mitigation systems, but most homeowners can substantially reduce their radon levels by making a few changes around their property.
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That includes sealing any openings that could be allowing radon into the home such as cracks around windows, vents, and pipes. You should also make sure that all of the lowest rooms in your home like the basement have adequate ventilation.
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Radon Poisoning: Facts & Risk-Reduction Action to Take #5
Homeowners Can Get Loans for Mitigation Systems
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The final cost of a radon mitigation system is determined by many different factors including the size and layout of the home.
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While the initial costs can be daunting, many homeowners qualify for federal loans to have these systems installed. Some homeowners also wrap the costs of their mitigation systems into their home loans.
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Anyone who feels uncomfortable using radon testing kits or believes they might have gotten a false positive should contact a local radon testing companies.
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This radioactive gas isn’t only going to lower the value of your home, but it can also put your family’s health at risk.
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Dixie Somers, Freelance Writer
dixiesomers@gmail.com
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Share with us your radon / heavy metals challenges and hazards!
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