Radon Affects Children and Pets

Radon is a radioactive gas that can have harmful effects on human health, including an increased risk of lung cancer. Children and pets are particularly vulnerable to the effects of radon. Their bodies are still developing and they have a higher respiratory rate than adults. Read on to discover how radon affects children and pets.

How Radon Affects Children

In children, radon exposure can lead to a higher risk of lung cancer later in life. This is because children’s lungs are still developing and are more susceptible to damage from radiation. Additionally, children also have a higher respiratory rate than adults, which means they take in more air and therefore more radon. This can lead to a greater accumulation of radon in their bodies over time.

How Radon Affects Pets

Pets, particularly dogs, can also be affected by radon exposure. Like children, pets have a higher respiratory rate than adults, which means they take in more air and therefore more radon. Pets spend a lot of time indoors and may be exposed to radon for prolonged periods of time. This can lead to a greater accumulation of radon in their bodies over time and can increase their risk of cancer and other health problems.

There are several steps that can be taken to protect children and pets from the effects of radon:

Test for Radon

The first step is to test for radon in the home. There are several types of radon test kits available, including short-term and long-term tests. Short-term tests are typically used to determine if a home has elevated levels of radon. Long-term tests are used to determine the average radon levels over a period of time.

Take Action to Reduce Radon Levels

If the test results show that radon levels are elevated, the next step is to take action to reduce the levels. One effective way to reduce radon levels is through the use of a radon mitigation system. These systems work by creating a barrier between the soil and the home, so that radon gas cannot enter the home. Additionally, these systems also include a fan that helps to vent the radon gas out of the home.

Another way to reduce radon levels is through the use of air sealing and insulation. By sealing cracks and gaps in the foundation and walls, and by insulating the walls and floors, homeowners can help to prevent radon gas from entering the home.

Get Fresh Air and Sunlight

It’s important to ensure that children and pets have access to fresh air and sunlight. Opening windows and doors to allow for fresh air circulation can help to reduce radon levels in the home as a short term solution. Additionally, spending time outdoors and away from the home can also help to reduce exposure to radon.

It’s also important to note that the effects of radon exposure may not be immediately apparent. The risk of lung cancer from radon exposure typically increases with long-term exposure, so it is important to take steps to reduce radon levels in the home as soon as possible to protect the health of children and pets.