During National Radon Action Month, the Government of Canada is working to raise awareness and inform Canadians about the simple actions they can take to reduce their risk from radon exposure.
Although you can't see it, smell it or taste it, radon is a dangerous radioactive gas in the soil and rocks beneath your home. It enters your home through cracks and gaps in foundation floors and walls. It can be present in all types of homes whether they are new or old or with finished or unfinished basements.
Radon gas is the second-leading cause of lung cancer after smoking. Reducing the risk of radon exposure is an important step in protecting your health. The good news is that it is easy to reduce the risk.
Is your home's radon level a danger to your family? The only way to know the radon level in your home is to conduct a test. You can purchase a simple and inexpensive do-it-yourself test kit, or you can hire a certified professional to conduct the test for you.
As Minister of Health, nothing is more important to me than the safety and well-being of all Canadians. I encourage you all to test your homes for radon and take action to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Rona Ambrose
Minister of Health