A transparent, radioactive gas could be putting some homeowners’ health at risk. Rick Brodke with the Iowa Department of Public Health says that radon is a naturally occurring gas that makes its way into homes through the soil.

Radon is considered a long term health risk and Brodke says having it in your home is similar to smoking without knowing it. He shares it’s a good idea to have your home tested, as the average radon levels in Washington County homes are twice the amount deemed safe by the EPA.

You can request a free test by calling the Washington County Environmental Health Department.