EPA Warning of Dangers of Radon Gas

EPA Warning of Dangers of Radon Gas

January is "National Radon Action Month." the Environmental Protection Agency reports 20,000 deaths a year from the odorless gas. Indiana State Department of Health radiation specialist Mary Styker says radon is created naturally underground and can seep into homes.

People who breathe in radon can develop lung cancer. Officials say radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in smokers and the leading cause in non-smokers. Homes at greater risk include those with basements, crawl-spaces and homes on slabs with cracked foundations.

To test your house, there are simple do-it-yourself kits that can gather information in a matter of days. You can also hire a certified inspector. If your home has a high level of radon, you can have a mitigation system installed that includes a series of pipes under your house. The process can cost between $800 and $1,200.