Pennsylvania Residents Urged to Dial 811 Before Digging for Safe Home Projects

A Crucial Reminder for Pennsylvania Residents

On August 11th, Pennsylvania 811 is highlighting the importance of contacting 811 before embarking on any digging project. This day serves as an annual reminder that any digging, whether for a simple mailbox installation or a large construction endeavor, requires a prior call to 811 to identify the locations of underground utilities and avoid costly accidents.

Every few minutes, an underground utility line is inadvertently damaged because someone decided to dig without first placing a call to 811. The consequences of striking a buried utility line can be severe—ranging from disrupting essential services to potentially causing life-threatening injuries. Hitting a utility line can incur expensive repair costs and lead to prolonged outages for both the homeowner and the surrounding community.

To emphasize the urgency of this initiative, Bill Kiger, the President and CEO of Pennsylvania 811, states, "On August 11—and every day—we remind homeowners and contractors to use 811 before they dig. This simple step protects you, your property, and your entire community. It's quick, it's easy, and it can prevent a life-changing mistake."

Steps for Safe Digging

As Pennsylvanians prepare for their digging projects, it's essential to follow these guidelines to ensure safety and avoid unnecessary risks:

1. Contact 811 in Advance: Always call 811 at least three business days before starting any digging project, regardless of its size or your familiarity with the property.

2. Plan Ahead: If you have a weekend project in mind, make sure to submit your request early in the week to allow sufficient time for utility markings.

3. Wait for Utility Markings: After contacting 811, ensure that all utility lines have been accurately marked before initiating any digging activity.

4. Respect the Marks: Once utilities are marked, it's crucial to adhere to those indications and dig carefully around them.

5. Verify Your Contractor's Actions: If you hire a contractor for your project, confirm that they have also contacted 811 to prevent any unmarked digging. Never start digging if you suspect the area hasn't been properly marked.

By following these steps, Pennsylvania residents can prioritize their safety as well as that of their neighbors, protecting everyone from possible accidents that can arise from undetected utility lines.

For more information on safe digging practices and to submit a request, residents are encouraged to visit www.pa1call.org.

Further Comments

With construction season in full swing, it’s crucial to remember that even minor digging projects can have serious implications. The initiative to contact 811 is not only a legal requirement but a community responsibility that helps ensure the safety and well-being of everyone.

In conclusion, whether you're breaking ground for a new garden, building a deck, or undertaking any other digging task, make it a rule to ALWAYS contact 811 first. Doing so safeguards not just your home, but the essential services of your entire community.