Radon
 
Radon is a radioactive gas that occurs naturally in some ground water.

Radon may pose a health risk when the gas is released from water into the air, as occurs when showering, bathing, or washing dishes or clothes. Radon gas released from drinking water is a relatively small part of the total Radon in air. Radon is released into homes and groundwater from soil.

During our most recent round of sampling in 1998 (1999 for Patapsco), water samples taken of our source waters indicate radon at concentrations of 290, 133 and 410 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) from Aquia, Patapsco and Piney Point, respectively.

Inhalation of radon gas has been linked to lung cancer; however, the effects of radon ingested in drinking water are not yet clear.

If you are concerned about radon in your home, tests are available to determine the total exposure level. For additional information on how to have your home tested call: (800) SOS-RADON