UT Extension hosting program on protecting home from dangers of radon Jan. 9

If you are like most Americans, you spend much of your time indoors. Although air is taken for granted, the air you breathe at home may not be healthy. Research has found that in homes across America the quality of indoor air can be worse than outdoor air. Improved construction techniques make homes being built and remodeled “tighter” than in the past. One indoor air hazard is radon, a radioactive gas that comes from the soil and rock beneath and around the foundation, groundwater wells, and some building materials. It is tasteless, odorless and colorless and is found in widely varying amounts in most soil across Tennessee and the U.S. Left undetected, dangerous levels can increase the risk for lung cancer. UT Extension-Dickson County will host a seminar on radon on Wednesday, Jan. 9, beginning at 10 am in the Janet A. Harris Community Meeting Room at the UT Extension Office/Public Library, 204 Henslee Drive, in Dickson. Vaughn Cassidy from the State Office of Sustainable Practice will discuss the potential risk of radon and how to renovate your home to correct any problems. The presentation will be of interest to homeowners, realtors and builders. Attendees will receive educational materials. Radon testing kits and other prizes will be given. The program is free and open to the public; however, pre-registration is encouraged by calling the UT Extension-Dickson County Office at 446-2788 or by e-mailing Extension Director Janet Cluck at jccluck@utk.edu.