Your home in Gurnee, IL could be secretly exposing you to a hazardous gas. Radon is a toxic radioactive byproduct that occurs when uranium decomposes. The gas percolates through the ground, creeps inside basements and concentrates inside local homes. Due to the radioactive elements, it’s the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking according to the American Lung Association. If you’re a property owner, here’s what you should know.
Understanding Radon
This odorless, colorless and tasteless gas is found in buildings across Illinois and the United States. It’s generally a problem in areas where granite, shale, and sedimentary rocks are common since they contain more uranium.
When uranium breaks down, it creates several daughter elements, including radium. Due to the unstable atomic structure, the gas forms a series of byproducts. One such element is polonium, which is especially damaging to the lungs.
What You Can Do
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, most homes in Lake County have radioactive gas levels between 2 and 4 picocuries per liter, which is associated with moderate health risks. The EPA recommends testing for all homes because high levels occur in every geographic zone. Government organizations and the University of Illinois provide low-cost kits for assessing your indoor air quality.
If levels above 4 pCi/L are detected in your home, the EPA recommends taking immediate actions to address the problem. It suggests that homeowners also consider taking action for borderline test results.
Improving Your Indoor Air Quality
By addressing indoor pollutants, you can create a healthier home for your family. To get started, call Herchenbach Mechanical at (847) 260-9335, or learn more about our indoor air quality services on our website.
