What You Should Know About Radon

January 15, 2013 - January is National Radon Action Month. The US Environmental Protection Agency is warning all citizens about the dangers of radon and encouraging all homeowners to test their home for radon. Communities across the nation have partnered with organizations to lead activities and host special events, to increase awareness of the health effects. The EPA is taking action to promote radon testing and mitigation as well as new construction that is radon-resistant.

In Illinois, a new law took effect on January 1st that requires all licensed day-care homes and centers to test for radon.

WHAT IS RADON?

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that may be present in homes, schools, and office building environments. You cannot see it, smell it, nor taste it, but you can test for it. And, if you have a radon problem, it can be fixed.

WHY SHOULD I CARE?

Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer deaths among non-smokers in America and claims the lives of about 20,000 Americans each year.

The link between radon exposure and lung cancer in humans has become a global concern recognized by all health agencies including:

American Medical Association
U.S. Surgeon General
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
U.S. Public Health Service
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Center for Disease Control
National Academy of Science
National Cancer Institute
World Health Organization

WHAT CAN I DO?

The only way to tell how much radon you have in your home is to test for it. Carnow, Conibear & Assoc., Ltd. can help. We’re licensed by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) to test for radon. We provide simple, cost effective, non-invasive radon measurements in homes, commercial/public building, schools, and day care facilities.

Call us today at 312-762-2956 and schedule your test. You can also visit us online at www.ccaltd.com/contact.

GET INFORMED?

For more information about radon, contact the IEMA at 1-800-245-1325 and online at IEMA. Visit the Environmental Protection Agency or go to www.ccaltd.com/links, scroll down to our Radon tab and click “A Citizen’s Guide To Radon” where you can get all the facts.

Acting now, will save lives!

Carnow Conibear and Associates is a demonstrated leader in the occupational and environmental health professions since 1975. To find out more, click here or call us at (800) 860-4486.