Pennsylvania 811 Urges Safe Digging Practices
Pennsylvania 811 is reminding homeowners and contractors to contact 811 at least three business days before starting any digging project to prevent damage to buried utilities. With over 50 years of experience serving the Commonwealth, Pennsylvania One Call System emphasizes the importance of safety when it comes to digging near underground utility lines.
By contacting 811, individuals are connected to the local 811 center, which then notifies utility companies of the digging plans. Professional locators are dispatched to mark the approximate locations of underground lines with flags or spray paint. This precautionary step can prevent injuries, costly repairs, outages, and potential fines associated with damaging utility lines.
It is crucial to contact 811 before digging, regardless of the size of the project. Whether you are installing a mailbox, building a deck, planting a tree, or laying a patio, contacting 811 ensures that underground utilities are identified and marked to prevent accidents.
Bill Kiger, President & CEO for Pennsylvania One Call System, highlights the importance of using the 811 service to reduce the risk of striking an underground utility line. By calling 811 or visiting http://www.paonecall.org, individuals can gain valuable information about buried utilities in their area and ensure safe digging practices.
Even when digging just a few inches or in a previously marked area, the risk of hitting a utility line still exists. Factors like erosion, past digging projects, and uneven surfaces can affect the depth of utility lines, underscoring the need for proper marking before any excavation work begins.
To learn more about the 811 service and safe digging guidelines, visit http://www.paonecall.org. By taking this simple step before digging, you can protect yourself, your property, and the vital underground infrastructure that serves the community.
For additional visuals and information, please refer to the image provided by Pennsylvania One Call System, Inc. below. Remember, safety is in your hands – contact 811 before you dig!
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