Ways to protect your children

4. Avoid Radon Gas Exposure - Test Your House for Radon.

Radon is an odorless, colorless, naturally occurring radioactive gas that can cause lung cancer. It is found in particularly high levels in Berks County and surrounding counties because of the geography of the area. In 2001 radon levels in some homes in Berks County tested 150 to 225 times higher than levels the U.S. EPA believes is safe.

An individual’s risk of getting lung cancer from radon depends on the level of radon exposure, the duration of the exposure, and the individual’s smoking habits. Smokers face a significantly higher risk than non-smokers. Children may be more sensitive to radon exposure than adults because their lungs are still growing and their breathing rate is faster. Children of parents who smoke face a much higher risk.

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PA DEP) encourages every Pennsylvania home to be tested. Some hospitals now distribute radon test kits to parents of newborns. Radon test kits are also available at most hardware stores and home improvement centers.

Steps You Can Take:

• Test your home for radon. Test kits are available at most hardware stores and home improvement centers. Most homeowners should begin with a less expensive short-term test. If the test indicates there may be a concern, repeat the test with a more precise long-term test. Be sure to follow the directions carefully to ensure accurate test results.

• Fix your home if the long-term test results indicate it is necessary. If the long-term test results indicate it is necessary, contact PA DEP at 800-237-2366 for a list of companies that can help repair your home. Most homes can be fixed for between $800 and $2,500.