By Dennis Goebel, Vice President, Liberty Mutual Insurance Company
Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that can seep into any type of building, including your home. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, it’s the leading cause of lung cancer among nonsmokers. Fortunately, radon is easy to detect—so you can protect your family from it.
Here is important information about dealing with radon.
- Why is it harmful? Radioactive particles are released with the natural decay of uranium found in nearly all soil, as well as rock and water. When inhaled, these particles can cause lung cancer. A radon level above 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) of air is considered dangerous. About 0.4 pCi/L of radon is typically found outdoors.
- How does it get inside buildings? Radon migrates through soil and enters buildings through cracks in the foundation, basement floor, and walls; openings around sump pumps, drains, pipes, and wires; joints in construction materials; and crawl spaces. As radon seeps into your home, it can build up in the enclosed living space, increasing in concentration.
- Where can you find a radon test? Low-cost do-it-yourself test kits can be purchased at your local hardware store or online. If you prefer to use a qualified tester, your state radon office can provide you with a list.
- How do you fix the problem? If you discover a dangerously high radon level, a qualified contractor can help you find a solution. A mitigation system, which pulls the gas from the house and vents it outside, is an effective solution.
As a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians, you are also eligible to receive exclusive group savings. For more information and to get a free, no-obligation quote, call 855-440-2153, click here or contact your local agent.
Discounts and savings available where state laws and regulations allow, and may vary by state. To the extent permitted by law, applicants are individually underwritten; not all applicants may qualify.
Coverage underwritten and provided by Liberty Mutual Insurance Company and its affiliates, 175 Berkeley Street, Boston, MA 02116. ©2014 Liberty Mutual Group. All rights reserved.
