Radon Gas in Edmonton

Radon gas is a dangerous substance that can cause serious health problems for those who are exposed to it. This gas is odorless, colorless, and tasteless, making it difficult to detect without specialized equipment. Edmonton, Alberta is one of the areas that is at higher risk for elevated levels of radon gas, which is why it's essential for homeowners and businesses to be aware of the dangers and take steps to protect themselves and their families.

What is Radon Gas?

Radon gas is a naturally occurring gas that is produced by the breakdown of uranium in soil, rocks, and water. It is a radioactive substance that can seep into buildings through cracks in the foundation, walls, or floors. Once inside, the gas can accumulate to dangerous levels, which can pose a significant health risk to those exposed.

Health Risks of Radon Gas

Radon gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer, responsible for around 16% of all lung cancer deaths in Canada. When inhaled, radon gas particles can damage the lungs' DNA, leading to the formation of cancerous cells. The risk of developing lung cancer from radon gas exposure increases with the concentration of radon gas in the air and the length of exposure.

Radon Gas in Edmonton, Alberta

Edmonton, Alberta is located in an area that is known to have higher levels of radon gas. According to Health Canada, approximately 6% of homes in Edmonton and the surrounding areas have radon levels that exceed the national guideline of 200 Becquerels per cubic meter (Bq/m3).

It's important to note that radon gas levels can vary significantly from one home to another, even in the same neighborhood. The only way to know if your home or business is at risk of elevated radon levels is to conduct a radon gas test.

How to Protect Yourself from Radon Gas

The good news is that there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your family from radon gas exposure. The first step is to test your home or business for radon gas levels. This can be done with a do-it-yourself radon test kit, which is available at many hardware stores, or by hiring a professional radon gas testing company.

If your radon gas levels are above the national guideline of 200 Bq/m3, you should consider taking action to reduce your exposure. This can be done by hiring a professional radon mitigation company to install a ventilation system that will reduce radon gas levels in your home or business.

In addition to installing a ventilation system, there are other steps you can take to reduce your exposure to radon gas. These include sealing cracks and gaps in your foundation, walls, and floors, ensuring proper ventilation in your home or business, and avoiding spending long periods in poorly ventilated areas such as basements.

Conclusion

Radon gas is a serious health risk that should not be taken lightly. If you live or work in Edmonton, Alberta, it's important to test your home or business for radon gas levels and take steps to protect yourself and your family from exposure. By being proactive and taking the necessary precautions, you can reduce your risk of developing lung cancer and enjoy a healthy and safe living environment.