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Granite Counter Tops May be Unsafe
A recent report says gamma radiation and radon gas produced by uranium-rich stones used to make counter tops could cause cancer in humans...

(UPI) - A Texas expert says some granite counter tops have high amounts of uranium that could create a health risk for humans.

Rice University physics Professor W.J. Llope says gamma radiation and radon gas produced by uranium-rich stones used to make counter tops could cause cancer in humans, the Houston Chronicle reported Friday.

"Most stones, in terms of radioactivity, are relatively quiet," Llope said. "But there are a couple I have found that are insanely hot."

Llope said he studied 55 stones, standing for more than two dozen types of granite bought from dealers in and near Houston. He said some stones he tested from Brazil and Namibia contained hazardous levels of radiation.

Jim Martinez, spokesman for the Marble Institute of America, said his group is putting together a board of experts to come up with a procedure for testing radiation levels in granite.

"We want to establish scientific standards and protocol that would allow consistent testing in a logical way," he said.

Homeowners Insurance: Tips for Reducing Your Premium

ONTARIO, Calif., - With gas prices fluctuating, the mortgage crisis and economic conditions threatening a recession, people everywhere are looking to save money. A good place to start is with your homeowner's policy, says Frank N. Darras, one of Americas' top insurance lawyers.

In spite of our economy, home values have increased over the past 5-15 years. Many people have failed to determine if their current insurance coverage would be adequate to replace their homes. Your policy should allow you to completely rebuild your home should a disaster occur. If not, get your policy updated to match your current property values.

"Make sure you are not grossly underinsured," says Darras. "You will pay more in premiums but save in the long run, if disaster strikes."

Darras offers these tips to save money:

-- Determine the limits you want on your homeowners insurance, what value you need to insure, get multiple quotes.

-- Consider purchasing your homeowner, auto and umbrella insurance with the same company so a multi-coverage discount will apply.

-- Having smoke, burglar alarms and a sprinkler system could mean bigger discounts.

-- Get a quote for insurance that would pay to replace your belongings, rather than pay you based on their depreciated value.

-- Ask your agent what documentation you need to substantiate a claim, in case of theft or fire. Make sure you videotape all of you personal properties including what is in the drawers and cabinets and send the tape to someone you trust for safekeeping.

-- Make sure you carry enough liability coverage to protect you against a lawsuit if someone gets slips, trips or gets hurt on your property.

"Always read the policy when you receive it and ask your agent to slowly and carefully explain any provisions you don't understand. Finally, never buy insurance from a company you don't recognize," says Darras.

For more information see http://www.darrasnews.com or call 800-458-4577.