Related Links & Infomation

Radon Gas 

• What is Radon Gas and the associated health risks?
  • Radon is a cancer-causing, radioactive gas that you cannot see, smell, or taste.  However, nearly 1 in 15 homes in the U.S. are estimated to have elevated levels of radon, and it may cause a problem in your home.  Radon gas comes from the natural decay of uranium in rocks and soil.  When this gas escapes into open air, it is harmless, but when radon gas seeps into a home's living or working areas, it can accumulate and become a deadly threat.  If you have well water, radon in the water can enter into the living areas by escaping into the air when faucets and showers are in use.  Radon is the nation's second leading cause of lung cancer, estmated to cause 21,000 deaths per year.  
  • Radon gas can be found just about anywhere.  
  • Unless you test for radon gas, there is no way of knowing how much is present.
• Associated health risks
  • Lung cancer in non-smokers and smokers alike.
  • For more information please visit Enviornmental Protection Agency
  • EPA Map of Radon Zones
  • Indoor Air Quality 

Mold

• Where is mold found in homes and what are the associated health risks?
  • Mold in homes can be found in shower stalls, basements, crawlspaces, drywall, wallpaper, ceiling tiles, carpets, ductwork, under sinks, furniture, roofs, etc.  Many areas in the home can become infested by mold if the requisite growing conditions are present.  Mold can also be carried in the from the outdoors through open doors, windows, vents and even pets.
• Associated health risks

  • Molds can produce irritating substances that may act as allergy-causing substances (allergens) in sensitive individuals.

  • There are many types of mold.

  • For more information please visit EPA/Mold  

Lead-based paint

• What is lead-based paint and the associated health risks?
  • Lead-based paint is paint that was manufactured prior to 1978 and contains lead.
  • In 1978 the manufacturing of lead-based were banned by the federal goverment.
  • If you home was built in or prior to 1978, lead-based paint may be present.
• Associated health risks
  • Lead-based paints in good condition pose little risk; however, when the paint begins to peel, crack, or chip health risks can be of concern. 
  • Lead poisoning can be hard to detect and even people who seem healthy can have high blood levels of lead. Signs and symptoms usually aren't apparent until dangerous amounts have accumulated.
  • Lead poisoning can be prevented.
  • For more information please visit EPA/Lead