Radon Awareness in SW Michigan

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is tasteless, odorless, and colorless. It comes from the breakdown of radium, which comes from the breakdown of uranium and is found in the soil. Elevated levels of radon gas are very common in the US especially in our state of Michigan. Radon is the number one cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. It is estimated that 21,000 people die in the US from lung cancer caused by radon (This is more than drunk driving). In the state of Michigan it is estimated that 1 in every 4 homes may have elevated levels of radon. In some Michigan counties the state has estimated that elevated radon levels can be found in 40-50 percent of homes. It is extremely important to have your home tested for radon. The World Health Organization recommends mitigation at 2.7 pCi/L. The EPA is still at 4 pCi/L. This action level is mainly for real estate transactions. This doesn't mean 4 is a safe number. We recommend getting your radon levels as close to one a possible. Testing can be done easily with a charcoal test kit from the hardware store, or having a licensed professional complete a radon test with a continuous monitor. However you decide, please test your home and make sure your family is not at risk.