According to a recent study, since 2012, the rate of Canadian homes containing detrimental levels of radon gas has more than doubled.

Dr. Aaron Goodarzi at the University of Calgary showed that nearly 1 in 5, or 17 per cent, of homes Canada contains an unsafe level of radon, an invisible, radioactive gas that forms as a biproduct of the natural breakdown of uranium in the soil.

Effie Kosmas, Lung Sask Manager of Prevention and Policy, strongly encourages all Saskatchewan residents to test for radon in their homes, as it could save their life.

“Radon gas exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer, and it’s connected to the deaths of over 3,000 Canadians every year.”

If your home tests positive for high levels, Kosmas says, “Mitigators typically use a technique called sub-slab depressurization, where they will install a radon pipe through the foundation of your home, as well as a radon fan that draws the radon up and out of your home before it even has a chance to enter.”

She says this process often doesn’t cost more than replacing an air conditioner or furnace. Testing kits can be purchased from Lung Sask for $65.00.