FAQ

What is Radon?

Radon is an odorless, colorless, radioactive gas, It forms naturally from the decay (breaking down) of radioactive elements, such as uranium, which are found in different amounts in soil and rock throughout the world.

Radon gas in the soil and rock can move into the air and into underground water and surface water. Radon is present outdoors and indoors. It is normally found at very low levels in outdoor air and in drinking water from rivers and lakes. It can be found at higher levels in the air in houses and other buildings, as well as in water from underground sources, such as well water.

Radon breaks down into solid radioactive elements called radon progeny (such as polonium-218 etc.) Radon progeny can attach to dust and other particles and can be breathed into the lungs. As radon and radon progeny in the air break down, they give off radiation that can damage the DNA inside the body’s cells.

Where is Radon found?

Radon is emitted from the ground and enters homes and other structures through basement floors, foundations, uncovered sump pump pits, and wall cracks. It becomes a problem when it accumulates in these buildings. ANY home can have a radon problem. This means new and old homes, well-sealed and drafty homes, and homes with or without basements.

Why is Radon a problem?

Over time, the radioactive particles that are inhaled into the lungs cause cancer. Inhaling radon is the second-leading cause of lung cancer deaths in the U.S. The American Lung Association and confirmed in the EPA’s 2003 Assessment of Risks from Radon in Homes; they estimate 21,000 radon related deaths per year. The numbers of deaths from other causes are taken from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s 2005-2006 National Center for Injury Prevention and Control Report and 2006 National Safety Council Reports.
Table Source: epa.gov/radon

It is important to note two things!

1. This threat is completely preventable!
2. You cannot predict radon levels based on your state, local and neighborhood radon
   measurements.

Do not rely on radon test results taken in other homes in the neighborhood to estimate the radon level in your home. Homes which are next to each other can have different indoor radon levels. Testing is the only way to find out what your home’s radon level is.

How much Radon is too much?

According to an article published by the American Lung Association in 2022 there is much testing disparity in South Dakota, but estimated mean radon levels in SD are 8.5 pCi/L (twice the EPA action level).