News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
Upper Cumberland homes may contain higher levels of radon.
That according to Putnam County EMA Director Tyler Smith.
“Because we have a lot of caves in our area. In certain homes that are around a cave, or some homes are even on top of caves,” Smith said. “Can have a higher rating of radon in their homes due to that. Because Radon is really a breakdown of rock and soil. ”
Upper Cumberland residents can test their homes for high levels of radon.
Smith said radon is an invisible radioactive gas that exists after the breakdown of uranium.
“Radon is a radioactive gas that is found in a lot of homes across America,” Smith said. “It can lead to lung cancer if there is a higher dosage of the gases in your home.”
The Tennessee State Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) reports radon is known to exist in every county in Tennessee.
Smith said residents can use test kits to gauge the amount of radon in their houses. If some homeowners have higher levels, Smith said they should fill cracks in the foundation and increase household ventilation.
“If you have got cracks in your foundation, it is getting those sealed up. If you know you have got higher levels of radon,” Smith said. “That would be the best solution. And then again, using caulk or any type of floor sealing would help do that.”
Smith said people must test first before making changes to their homes.
Governor Bill Haslam proclaimed January 2019 as Radon Action Month and encourages all Tennesseans to be aware of the potential health risks. TDEC offers free radon test kits for those interested in testing their own homes. More information can be found on the department’s website.
