Is radon common in Winnipeg?

Up to 30 per cent of Winnipeg homes have unsafe levels of radon: Lung association. About 100 people die from the effects of radon here in Manitoba each year, according to the Lung Association of Manitoba. Radon is a colourless, odourless gas that travels through homes from the soil and up through the basement.

Is radon a problem in Manitoba?

Health Canada has estimated that about 7 per cent of Canadians and about 19 per cent of Manitobans are living in homes above the radon guideline of 200 Bq/m3 (Source: Cross-Canada Survey of Radon Concentrations in Homes: Final Report.

Are home radon detectors accurate?

Based on the requirements of these two programs, one could generalize that short-term or long-term radon detectors that have passed one of these performance tests have an accuracy of about 25% or possibly better.

Where is the best place to put a radon detector?

Place a radon detector in the breathing zone, 2-6 feet above the floor, and away from drafts, exterior walls, sumps, drains, windows or doors. Radon may enter a building through cracks in the foundation or through sumps or drains and will usually be higher near these entry points.

Where is radon in Manitoba?

According to data gathered by the Canadian – National Radon Proficiency Program, on average 20 per cent of homes in Manitoba have levels above the Canadian guideline. There are some areas of the province, closer to Brandon and Morden-Winkler, that have a closer to 50 per cent rate.

Does opening windows help with radon?

Opening windows improves air circulation and ventilation, helping move radon out of the house and mixing radon-free outside air with indoor air. Make sure all your basement windows are open. Homes tend to have lower air pressure than their surroundings, which draws radon into the basement.

How often should I test my home for radon?

every two years
If you’re wondering how often you should test for radon, here are the facts. To provide peace of mind, 2the EPA recommends testing your home after any lifestyle changes, renovations and every two years as part of routine home maintenance.

Where in Canada are radon levels the highest?

Radon is a naturally-occurring colourless, odourless, tasteless gas that is radioactive. It occurs naturally throughout Canada, however there are some regions where it is more prevalent, such as Manitoba, Saskatchewan, New Brunswick and parts of British Columbia and Quebec.