Homeowners should test for radon, experts say

SALT LAKE CITY — Utah has some of the highest levels of radon.

"From the data we've collected, we estimate about a third of the homes in Utah will have elevated levels," said Christine Keyser, Utah's indoor radon coordinator.

"Everyone should test their home for radon," she said.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer and the leading environmental cause of cancer. Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that is a byproduct of decaying uranium. It can invade a home and, over time, make residents sick. People may not know it's there until it's too late.

Riverton residents Ken and Brenda Gallacher tested their home for radon shortly after moving in and found levels higher than the EPA's recommended average indoor radon concentration.

"It's something everyone should check. You cannot be in denial about this," Ken Gallacher said.

The Gallachers' radon report showed their home had a concentration of 12.5 picocuries per liter (pCi/L). The EPA recommends homeowners take action if their indoor radon concentration is 4.0 pCi/L or higher.

The Gallachers decided to install a radon abatement system, which significantly reduces radon levels and mitigates the risk of health effects.

"We've known what it's like not to have your health," Brenda Gallacher said. "There's nothing more valuable in life than having your health. The cost is well worth it."

The abatement system moves the radon from underneath the house, where the gas collects, and ventilates it to the outside.

"Having this done gives you piece of mind and makes your home a lot safer," Ken Gallacher said.

Ten homeowners whose locations stretch from Orem to Brigham City agreed to test their homes for radon. They agreed to share the test results if their last names were not used. Some homeowners, like Brian in Orem, knew what radon was but had put off testing.

"We have four kids, and we actually have one on the way in June," Brian said. "So it's kind of been on my mind for a while now."

Other homeowners, like Rebecca in Lehi, confused the gas with carbon monoxide. "We brought up carbon monoxide a couple times," she said. "But now that we have the baby, you think more about it."