IT'S colourless, odourless and tasteless but high levels of this gas can increase the risk of cancer – and it occurs naturally in the land.

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.

The map shows that, in Tynedale and Northumberland, the level of radon gas is moderate.

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.

What areas across Tynedale are impacted by radon gas?

We've rounded up the levels according to the UKradon website:

  • In Hexham, the maximum radon potential is 1-3 per cent.
  • Over in Corbridge, the maximum radon potential is 5-10 per cent.
  • In Stocksfield, the maximum radon potential is 1-3 per cent.
  • At Wylam, the maximum radon potential is 1-3 per cent.
  • In Prudhoe, less than 1 per cent of homes at or above the action level.
  • Over in Ponteland, the maximum radon potential is 1-3 per cent.
  • The levels vary across Haydon Bridge, with the maximum radon potential varying between 1-3 per cent and 5-10 per cent.
  • In Bardon Mill, the maximum radon potential is 10-30 per cent.
  • Across Haltwhistle, the levels also vary, with maximum radon potential between 1-3 per cent and 5-10 per cent in some areas.
  • In Bellingham, the maximum radon potential is 10-30 per cent.

How to check radon in your area

Visit the UK Health Security Agency website to see the radon levels in your area.