Spring is a favored season for initiating outdoor projects that involve digging. In recognition of April as National Safe Digging Month, there is a renewed emphasis on the importance of calling 811 before starting any digging project, regardless of its scale.
Projects like creating a new garden or installing a mailbox may appear minor, but utility lines can lie just beneath the surface. Marking these lines before commencing any digging is crucial for averting potential injuries, property damage, and utility service interruptions.
For those planning a digging project, it is necessary to contact the local 811 authority at least two to three business days in advance, not including holidays. The request must include the street address, specific locations on the property where the digging will occur, the nature of the work, the excavation method, and any other vital instructions for marking utility lines accurately. If a professional excavator is hired, they should make this request.
Upon request submission, the state 811 center will notify utility operators, who will then mark their buried utility lines on the property using paint or flags. This service is provided at no cost. Different utilities are indicated by various flag colors.
Individuals can explore available maps to determine the specific lead times relevant to their area, submit requests for utility line marking, or gather more information about safe digging practices.
Embrace the warmer weather for spring projects, but always prioritize safety by contacting 811 before you dig. Additional safety information and resources are available at firstenergycorp.com/safety.
