Smell Gas or Have
an Emergency?
August 11 is National 811 Day, and Southeast Gas uses this day as a reminder to everyone in our communities to always contact 811 before starting any digging project. Whether you are preparing for a small residential project, such as installing a mailbox or planting a tree, or breaking ground on a major construction project, contacting 811 helps prevent accidents, outages, and costly repairs. In fact, not calling 811 is the primary cause of struck lines and damage.
“Safe digging practices are one of the primary ways Southeast Gas works alongside excavators and other utility contractors to ensure that residents throughout our Southeast Gas service area stay safe and that our infrastructure operates to its fullest capacity,” says Southeast Gas Safety Coordinator Mark Fowler.
How 811 Works
811 is a free service that contacts local utilities on your behalf. Utility companies will then dispatch trained professionals to mark the location of underground lines. These marks show you where it is safe to dig and where you need to use extra caution. Requests should be made at least two days, but no more than ten days, before digging. Once lines are marked, you can begin your project knowing you have taken the proper steps to protect yourself, your property, and your community.
Five Ways to Dig Smart
- Don’t wait until the day before your project to call 811.
- Make your request early in the week if you’re working on the weekend.
- Only start digging once you’ve confirmed utilities have marked the area.
- Dig carefully and avoid the flagged or painted zones.
- If you hire out the work, make sure the contractor has contacted 811.
Safe digging is everyone’s responsibility. This one small step protects people, property, and the services we all rely on. So remember, no matter the size of your next project, remember to call 811 before you dig.