Below is a brief overview of radon. In-depth radon information is available at EPA Radon Home Page or by calling 1 (800) 23-RADON for a free information packet.
Radon, the second leading cause of lung cancer, is a radioactive gas that comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil and rock and gets into the air you breathe. It moves through the ground and into your home through cracks and other holes in the foundation where it can accumulate to unsafe levels. Because it is odorless, colorless, and tasteless, testing is the only way to know if you and your family are at risk from radon. There are simple ways to fix a problem if needed.
Radon can also enter the home through well water, although in most cases, will be a small source of risk.
The Bureau has a pamphet, "What You Should Know About Radon" available for download.
Pennsylvania has a serious radon problem. There are an estimated 860-3,800 lung cancer deaths per year in Pennsylvania due to residential radon exposure. An estimated 40% of Pennsylvania homes have radon levels above EPA's action guideline of 4 pCi/l.