Radon
Radon is a radioactive gas that comes from the ground. It is formed from
uranium deep in the earth, then it goes up through cracks in the
ground and into basements. Because radon is heavier than air, it stays in
your basement until it's blown out. The problem is that most people don't
ventilate their basements very well. Radon is dangerous because when you
breathe it into your lungs, it can release radiation. The radiation can
cause cancer over a long period of time.
Not every house has high levels of radon; it all depends on how much
uranium there is in the earth under your house, and how many cracks there
are in the walls and floor of your basement. Because you can't see or smell
it, if you're worried about radon you have to buy a special testing kit
to check if it's there.
The best prevention to keep radon from building up to dangerous levels is
to make sure your basement is well ventilated. If radon is a serious problem
in your area, you should seal all of the cracks in your basement to make
sure no radon can get in.
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