Great post.
People need to understand that radiation is indeed everywhere.
The boulders in my yard, in the Granite State of New Hampshire, will set off Geiger counters, but at harmless levels.
Inside my house is a different story. As houses have become more energy efficient, IE: almost completely air tight and well insulated, scientists have found that the radon gas emitted by decaying granite is being trapped in houses in unhealthy levels.
The naturally occurring gas leaks in through basement floors and foundations. It was never a danger before because old construction methods allowed plenty of air leakage and it never built up to toxic levels.
To allow for a more efficient, less leaky building design, many homes and businesses in NH and throughout New England have radon venting systems that capture the gas from under the foundation and vent it well clear of the roof line.
A quick air quality test in the basement, required in NH when a building without a radon vent is sold, can determine if a vent is needed. Towns can hold up an occupancy permit if a vent is needed.
As you said, caution is needed, but not hysteria.
