I inherited my grandfather’s WWII compass, and had it sitting around for a long time on a shelf. I recently got a Geiger counter, and find that it’s radioactive. Around 10 microsieverts/hr. Apparently they used radium paint to make them glow in the dark. I can’t just throw it away, but I don’t want it potentially causing a danger to others in the room. Is there some sort of lead lined box I can put it in, or some kind of prevention I can do? Is there anyone experienced with this sort of thing that can offer some advice?
Knowing the dosage is a day’s exposure, and only if you expose yourself to if for an hour, makes me feel much safer about taking it camping once in the be 90s. In general, no one touched it for fear of breaking it.
We’re keeping it in the garage on a shelf, next to a window from now on. With a label.
Thank you!