Danger Level 5: Dangerous Gases

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Radon and carbon monoxide are potentially deadly gases that exist in many homes across the U.S. Approximately one in fifteen homes has high levels of radon gas. What makes these gases of particular concern is that they are odorless, tasteless, and invisible. Radon gas occurs naturally as uranium in soil and rock decays. It may enter the home through cracks and penetrations in
​slabs and foundations.
Carbon monoxide (CO) is produced by malfunctioning fuel-burning appliances, such as furnaces, boilers, water heaters, and wood stoves. Idling automobiles and outdoor power equipment also produce CO.
Together, radon and carbon monoxide are responsible for thousands of deaths every year in the United States and Canada. In fact, radon-caused lung cancer kills 15,000 to 21,000 people a year in the U.S. alone.