Health It has been only in very recent years that health researchers, public health agencies and governments have paid much attention to the potential risks of radon emission. We are all aware of the precautions which we must take to protect ourselves fromfire, carbon monoxide and accidents in our homes but generally, little is known about radon risk. However, in recent years, more studies done by federal and provincial governments, research organizations and public health units have demonstrated that many of our homes contain levels that may be injurious to our health. Radon is a radioactive gas that comes from uranium found in soil, groundwater and rock and is emitted into the outside air. It is colourless, odourless and tasteless and can only be quantified by careful testing. In the outside air, it quickly dissipates and creates no health hazard but, if it creeps into your house, school or workplace in elevated levels through the foundation, it can become a risk to your health. Our homes are most often closed to outside air exchange − especially in newer homes − and are therefore often susceptible to higher levels of radon. In rural homes, radonmay be present in groundwater from RADON GAS Is Your Home Safe? by Dr. Robert MacMillan MD 32 | www.snowbirds.org
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