May 31, 2001

Rep. Bard Announces New Radon Hotline

    HARRISBURG - You can't see it, smell it, or taste it, but radon could be in your home, said Rep. Ellen Bard (R-153).

    The Radon Division of the Environmental Protection Agency  has a Radon Hotline available to provide Pennsylvania homeowners with general information on radon and in-home testing for the invisible gas: 1-800-23-RADON (1-800-237-2366).

    Radon gas is produced from the natural decay of uranium deposits found in nearly all soils.  It typically moves up through the ground to air above and into buildings through construction joints, well water or cracks in the foundation.

    Outdoors, radon gas mixes with the air and is diluted to insignificant amounts that do not pose a health concern, but inside the home radon can get trapped and build up to significant levels.  The gas is said to be the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States.

    The most common test for radon is a do-it-yourself, short-term charcoal canister test thta can be purchased at most hardware and home improvement stores.  Homeowners can also hire a state-certified company or individual to do the testing.  Pennsylvanians are encouraged to use testing companies that are certified to perform radon testing or mitigation work in the state.

    Radon information is available by calling the hotline or by visiting the DEP web site at www.dep.state.pa.us (choose information by subject/radon).