#USA #Las Vegas #Southwest Gas #Call 811 #utility safety

National Call 811 Day Observance

On August 11, Southwest Gas is joining the nationwide recognition of National Call 811 Day, a crucial initiative aimed at safeguarding lives and properties during any digging activities. This awareness campaign highlights the importance of contacting 811 before starting any excavation. Whether you are an enthusiastic DIYer setting out to plant a tree or an experienced contractor undertaking complex commercial projects, notifying 811 before digging is a free and simple step that plays a vital role in preventing accidents involving underground utility lines.

Why Calling 811 is Essential

Every digging project, irrespective of its size, necessitates contacting 811 or visiting call811.com at least two working days prior to commencing work. This service assists in marking the location of underground utility lines at no cost, effectively reducing the likelihood of damaging critical services such as natural gas, electricity, and water. Recent data shows a positive correlation between calling 811 and the reduction in utility damages. In 2024, Southwest Gas noted a 15 percent decrease in underground utility damage incidents, complemented by a 10 percent increase in 811 call requests.

Despite these improvements, over 25 percent of natural gas incidents still arose from digging activities without prior notification, underscoring the pressing need for heightened awareness and proactive measures among the community.

Best Practices for Safe Digging

To ensure safety while undertaking any digging projects, Southwest Gas has issued several key safety tips:

• - Hand Digging: For areas within two feet of newly marked utility lines, opt for hand digging. This method minimizes the risk of damaging these lines.
• - Using Blunt Tools: Employ blunt-edged tools, such as rounded shovels, to avoid puncturing underground lines.
• - Monitoring Soil Changes: Stay vigilant for changes in soil texture or unexpected materials when digging, as these may indicate nearby utility lines.
• - Confirming Line Depths: Always verify the depth and correct locations of utility lines, avoiding assumptions based on old markings.

Free Training Opportunities

To promote safe practices even further, Southwest Gas is extending complimentary damage prevention training to contractors, landscapers, plumbers, and homeowners throughout its service territory. These sessions cover essential topics, including state-specific excavation laws, strategies for safe digging, and emergency procedures. Interested parties can find more information about available training sessions by visiting swgas.com/damage-prevention-training.

Recognizing Signs of a Natural Gas Leak

If anyone suspects they may have damaged a gas line or notices potential signs of a natural gas leak, it’s crucial to act swiftly:
1. Evacuate Immediately: If you believe there’s a leak, leave the area right away.
2. Contact Authorities: Call 911 and the Southwest Gas emergency response team at 877-860-6020.

Common indicators of a natural gas leak include:

• - A pungent rotten egg or sulfur-like odor.
• - A hissing or roaring sound near the ground or appliances.
• - Blowing dirt, bubbling water, or unexpected dead vegetation in the vicinity.

For more comprehensive information regarding natural gas safety protocols, visit swgas.com/safety. Additionally, users can review digging guidelines at swgas.com/dig-safe.

About Southwest Gas

Serving over two million customers across Arizona, California, and Nevada, Southwest Gas Corporation is dedicated to providing safe and reliable natural gas services. The company is focused on sustainability and innovation, actively contributing to the growth and safety of the communities it serves. For more insights, visit swgas.com.