Radon is an odorless, tasteless, and invisible radioactive gas that forms naturally when radioactive metals break down in rocks, soil and groundwater. People can be exposed to radon as it enters your home through cracks in building foundations, floor drains, and porous concrete block walls, your water supply system, or other building materials.
It is estimated that radon causes thousands of deaths each year and is the 2nd leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. By spending your lifetime in a house with radon levels of 10 pCi/l you have a lung cancer risk similar to smoking nearly a pack of cigarettes a day.
The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) is offering “Discounted” three dollar ($3) radon kits to test your home for the presence of radon. Free kits can be found here: https://drhomeair.fmbetterforms.com/#/maryland-discount
If your home tests positive, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) supports the following hotlines to best serve consumers with radon-related questions and concerns.