#USA #Oakland #Pacific Gas and Electric #Public Safety #811

National 811 Day: A Call to Action for Safe Digging

Every year, on August 11, the importance of calling 811 before any digging project is emphasized as we observe National 811 Day. This initiative aims to reduce the number of incidents where underground utility lines are damaged, posing significant public safety risks. In Northern and Central California, where Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) operates, the urgency of this reminder is underscored by alarming statistics regarding the consequences of neglecting to call 811 prior to digging.

The Reality of Underground Utility Damage

According to reports, thousands of underground utility lines are inadvertently struck each year due to people failing to contact 811 before commencing digging. In PG&E's service area alone, there were over 1,200 recorded incidents in 2025, with a staggering 55% of these occurring because individuals did not take the simple step of calling 811. With costs to repair an average damaged utility line reaching about $3,500, the financial ramifications can be substantial, not to mention the potential safety hazards that arise from such incidents.

As the weather warms up and projects around the home increase, the risk of damaging these essential lines rises dramatically. In just the first part of 2026, PG&E reported 561 incidents, and alarmingly, in 57% of those cases, the 811 call was not made—demonstrating a consistent pattern of negligence that could easily be avoided.

Why Call 811?

Calling 811 is a simple, free, and essential step before any digging activity, regardless of how large or small the project may be. From planting trees and landscaping to more involved projects like building fences or patios, the service helps locate and mark the position of underground utility lines at no cost to the homeowner. This proactive measure can prevent injuries and disruptions by ensuring that individuals know what's beneath the surface before they start digging.

“By making a fast and free call to 811, utility professionals will come to your home or job site to mark the location of underground lines so you can dig safely,” explained Mitch Smith, Director of Damage Prevention at PG&E. The message is clear: call 811 so emergencies can be avoided, and you won't have to reach out to 911 later.

Practical Steps to Ensure Safety

When planning any digging project, homeowners and contractors are advised to take the following steps:
1. Mark the Area: Clearly mark the part of the yard where you intend to dig with white paint, chalk, or flags.
2. Place the Call: Reach out to 811 at least two business days prior to digging to schedule a utility location request.
3. Stay Aware: Understand the signs of a potential gas leak, such as a rotten egg smell or hissing sounds, and respond appropriately by calling 911 if you suspect any danger.
4. Dig Safely: Use hand tools within 24 inches of marked utility lines and leave the professional markers in place until your project is complete.

Following these guidelines will enable homeowners to contribute to a safer digging environment, minimizing risks to themselves and their properties.

The Bigger Picture

PG&E serves over 16 million people across a vast area of approximately 70,000 square miles. With such a wide-reaching service, the frequency of digging-related incidents highlights a critical need for public awareness. Each affected line could potentially delay essential services and create hazards for the broader community. Therefore, understanding and adhering to the guidelines associated with National 811 Day is not just a personal responsibility but a community endeavor.

By emphasizing the need to call before you dig, National 811 Day serves as an important reminder of the collective responsibility we all share towards maintaining safety and preventing costly damages. Remember, it takes just one call to 811 to protect yourself, your family, and your community. Make the call and dig with confidence this National 811 Day.