NEW findings have highlighted the areas from Bridgwater to Burnham-on-Sea in the Sedgemoor area that have the highest percentages of radioactive radon gas.
Public health officials say every building contains radon and levels are usually low, but there are hotspots across the country, caused by the type of ground buildings were constructed on.
An interactive map, provided by the UK Health Security Agency, can tell you whether you live in, or near, an area affected by high levels of radon gas.
The darker the colour, the greater the chance of a higher level of gas. The risk is less than one home in a hundred in the white areas, and greater than one in three in the darkest areas.
Where in Sedgemoor is impacted by radon gas?
Areas such as Woolavington, Puriton, and East Brent appear to be impacted by radon gas, with a ten to 30 per cent maximum potential.
Bawdrip and Bradney meanwhile, have a five to ten per cent radon potential.
The majority of Bridgwater has a less than one per cent potential, although the Durleigh area has a one to three percent potential, which worsens to ten to 30 per cent near Enmore.
Burnham-on-Sea and Highbridge also remain unaffected, but nearby areas such as East Brent and Brent Knoll ranged from a five to 30 per cent potential.
What is radon gas?
Radon is formed by the radioactive decay of the small amounts of uranium found naturally in all rocks and soils. This means it is everywhere.
The radiation emitted can increase the risk of cancer
Is radon gas dangerous and am I at risk?
According to UKRadon, radon produces a radioactive dust in the air that we breathe.
The dust traps in our airways and emits radiation that damages the inside of our lungs. This damage, like the damage caused by smoking, increases our risk of lung cancer.
The higher the radon and the longer the exposure, the greater the risk.
To reduce risk, UKradon suggests you find out if you live in a radon-risk area and if you do, measure your home. If the radon is high, reduce it, and if you smoke, give up.
How to check radon in your area
Visit the UK Health Security Agency website to see the radon levels in your area.
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