Know the facts
Understanding Radon
Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in Canada. Here's what every Saskatchewan homeowner needs to know — and what you can do about it.
The basics
What Is Radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas produced by the breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. It's colourless, odourless, and tasteless — completely undetectable without proper testing equipment.
Outdoors, radon disperses harmlessly into the atmosphere. The problem occurs when it seeps into buildings through cracks in foundations, gaps around pipes, and other openings. Once inside, it can accumulate to dangerous levels — especially in basements and lower floors.
Long-term exposure to elevated radon levels significantly increases the risk of lung cancer. Health Canada estimates that radon causes approximately 3,200 lung cancer deaths in Canada every year.
Saskatchewan & radon
Why Saskatchewan Homes Are at Higher Risk
Saskatchewan sits on uranium-rich geology, making it one of the provinces with the highest average indoor radon concentrations in Canada. Studies have found that a significant percentage of Saskatchewan homes exceed Health Canada's guideline of 200 Bq/m³ — far above the national average. If you live in Saskatchewan and haven't tested your home, the odds are not in your favour.
200 Bq/m³
Health Canada's action guideline — the level at which mitigation is recommended
#1
Saskatchewan has among the highest average indoor radon levels of any Canadian province
Health effects
The Health Risks of Radon Exposure
Radon decays into radioactive particles that can be inhaled and become lodged in the lungs. Over time, these particles damage lung tissue and can lead to lung cancer. Key facts:
Radon is the #1 cause of lung cancer among non-smokers in Canada
Radon causes approximately 3,200 lung cancer deaths in Canada each year
The risk increases with both the concentration of radon and the length of exposure
Smokers exposed to radon face a dramatically higher combined risk
There are no immediate symptoms — lung cancer from radon can take years to develop
The only way to know your radon level is to test
Testing your home
How Radon Testing Works
Radon levels fluctuate with seasons, weather, and ventilation patterns. Health Canada recommends long-term testing (90 days or more, ideally over winter) for the most accurate results. Short-term tests are available when a faster result is needed — such as during a real estate transaction.
Place a detector
A certified radon detector is placed in the lowest livable area of your home — typically the basement or main floor.
Wait the testing period
For long-term tests, the detector stays in place for at least 90 days. Short-term tests run for 2–7 days.
Lab analysis
The detector is sent to a certified lab for analysis. Results are reported in becquerels per cubic metre (Bq/m³).
Review your results
If your level is below 200 Bq/m³, no action is required. Above 200 Bq/m³, mitigation is recommended.
Trusted sources
Official Resources & Links
Health Canada — Radon
The official Government of Canada resource for radon information, guidelines, and the national radon program.
Visit Health CanadaGovernment of Canada Radon Guideline
The official Government of Canada page explaining the 200 Bq/m³ radon guideline — what it means, how it was established, and what action is recommended above that level.
Canada's Radon GuidelineC-NRPP — Find a Certified Professional
Search the official C-NRPP directory to find certified radon measurement and mitigation professionals in your area. All listed professionals meet national competency standards.
Find a ProfessionalSaskatchewan Lung Association — Radon
Saskatchewan-specific radon information and resources from the Saskatchewan Lung Association, including details on the home mitigation rebate program.
Saskatchewan Lung AssociationSK Lung — Radon Mitigation Rebate Program
The Saskatchewan Lung Association offers a rebate for homeowners who install a radon mitigation system. Check the current program details and eligibility requirements.
Rebate Program DetailsCanadian Cancer Society — Radon
The Canadian Cancer Society's overview of radon as a cancer risk factor, with plain-language guidance on testing and reducing exposure.
Canadian Cancer SocietyCommon questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to test your home?
Book a certified radon test with Living Skies Radon Service — Saskatchewan's local radon professionals.