Living green starts from the ground up. So make sure the air in your home is healthy for your family to breathe. Test your home for radon and build radon-resistant. It's easy. Visit www.tn.gov/environment/ea/radon or call 1-800-232-1139.

WHAT IS RADON?

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas. It is released during the natural decay of uranium, which is found in most rock and soil. Radon is odorless, invisible, and without taste.

WHERE IS RADON FOUND?

Although certain areas of the state have higher levels of radon then others, radon has been detected in every county in Tennessee.

WHY SHOULD I BE CONCERNED?

Radon, like other radioactive materials, undergoes radioactive decay that forms decay products. Radon and its decay products release radioactive energy that can damage lung tissue in a way that causes the beginning of lung cancer. The more radon you are exposed to, and the longer the exposure, the greater the risk of eventually developing lung cancer.

Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, resulting in 22,000 deaths per year.

HOW DOES IT GET INTO MY HOUSE?

Primarily, air pressure inside your home is usually lower than pressure in the soil around and under your home. Because the pressure is lower inside, radon can move into homes through cracks, sump pumps, well water supplies, and other openings. All homes and structures are susceptible to radon.

WHAT CAN I DO?

Test your home for radon! There are no exceptions! Every home in Tennessee should be tested especially when you consider the fact that radon related lung cancer kills approximately 22,000 people each year.

The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) operates a statewide indoor Radon Program as part of the Office of Environmental Assistance. We offer a myriad of services and assistance: information for homeowners, technical information for universities, and specific materials for targeted audiences such as real estate professionals, home builders, building codes officials, home inspectors, and school officials.

Our commitment is strong and our message is simple. TEST FOR RADON TODAY.