#United States #Duke Energy #Cincinnati #Safe Digging #811 Day

Duke Energy Ohio/Kentucky Highlights the Importance of 811 on National Safe Digging Day

On August 11, recognized as National Safe Digging Day, Duke Energy Ohio/Kentucky urges all customers to prioritize safety by calling 811 before engaging in any digging activities. This initiative serves as a crucial reminder to ensure that underground utility lines are marked prior to any excavation work. The easy, toll-free number 811 connects individuals with local utility companies to prevent accidents related to underground utility lines.

What is 811?

The 811 Day campaign, organized by the U.S. Department of Transportation's Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), spreads the message of safe digging practices. As a homeowner, contractor, or anyone else planning an excavation project, it is essential to call 811 at least three business days ahead of starting your project. This allows local utilities enough time to send out professionals who will mark the locations of underground lines for electric, natural gas, water, sewer, phone, and cable TV.

The consequences of not following these steps can be devastating. Duke Energy reports over 5,000 instances of damage to underground utility lines in recent times alone, raising serious concerns regarding safety and economic loss. In particular, the utility company documented approximately 290 damages to natural gas lines and 89 to electric lines within their Ohio and Kentucky service territories from January to June 2025 alone.

Damage Statistics

The numbers reveal a pressing need for awareness and preventive measures:

• - In 2025, Duke Energy experienced more than 5,000 incidents of underground line damage.
• - In the same period, 290 incidents involved damage to their natural gas facilities, and 89 involved the electric network.
• - Reflecting on 2024's data, the company recorded a staggering 8,870 damages to natural gas and electric lines.

These figures underscore the importance of the 811 service.

Duke Energy's Commitment

According to Amy Spiller, president of Duke Energy Ohio/Kentucky, safety cannot be understated. She advocates for the simple yet vital act of calling 811 before starting any digging project, stating, "Damaging a utility line can be dangerous and costly, but it's easily prevented by this simple step. Safety and reliability start with contacting 811." This sentiment is echoed across their community outreach as they emphasize responsible actions in excavation.

How to Call 811

Every individual planning to dig must ensure they take this simple precaution. To utilize the 811 service, individuals can call the number directly or visit the website call811.com for more information. It's crucial that homeowners, contractors, and businesses understand the significance of the service provided.

About Duke Energy

Duke Energy Ohio/Kentucky is a prominent utility provider serving around 920,000 customers in its expansive service area, delivering both electric and natural gas. As a subsidiary of Duke Energy, which is recognized as one of America's largest energy holding companies, they remain committed to a smooth transition to cleaner energy sources whilst maintaining reliability for their customers.

In an era where energy needs are rapidly evolving, Duke Energy focuses on building a smarter energy future through substantial upgrades to the electric grid and investments in renewable energies, nuclear power, and energy storage solutions.

More information is accessible at duke-energy.com or via the Duke Energy News Center. Additionally, you can keep up with the company on various social platforms.

Conclusion

As excavation activities may occur frequently during home renovations and construction, Duke Energy’s 811 Day awareness campaign reinforces essential safety measures. Remember to call 811 before you dig to safeguard yourself, others, and essential utilities in your area.

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