National 811 Day: Essential Awareness for Safe Digging Practices
National 811 Day: Essential Awareness for Safe Digging Practices
Every year on August 11, we recognize National 811 Day, a vital occasion aimed at increasing awareness of safe digging practices. The emphasis is on making a simple, free call to 811 prior to starting any digging activities, whether they're seemingly minor or significant. This straightforward action can safeguard lives and prevent costly repairs.
The Importance of Calling 811
Before any digging, whether for home improvement projects like installing a fence or larger construction endeavors, it is crucial to connect with 811. This free service plays a critical role in helping ensure that you do not inadvertently damage underground utility lines, which can lead to serious consequences including injuries, service disruptions, and repair costs. It takes just one call to have experts come to your location and mark the presence of any underground lines, such as gas, electricity, water, and telecommunications.
In the service area covered by Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PGE), it has been reported that, as of early August 2025, there have been 471 incidents of underground utility line damages attributed to digging. Alarmingly, in 59% of these incidents, the responsible parties did not call 811 beforehand. For residential homeowners, this percentage escalates to a staggering 90%.
The Cost of Ignoring 811
The financial implications of disregarding this precaution are impressive. Damaging an underground line could cost approximately $3,500 in repairs. With such high stakes, the question becomes clear: why risk it? A free 811 call can spare homeowners from financial burdens while ensuring safety during any digging endeavor.
Preparing for Your Digging Project
To prepare for your project, reach out to 811 at least two business days before you start digging. This allows utility professionals enough time to mark the areas where underground lines are located. You can also visit 811express.com to initiate the request online. Once you have made the call:
- - Professionals from all utility sectors will visit your site and mark the location of underground lines with flags or spray paint.
- - It’s advised to outline your proposed digging area in white so the utility workers can easily identify the project site. Use white paint, flags, stakes, or even flour to demarcate the area clearly.
Safe Digging Practices
While it may seem trivial, adopting safe digging practices can prevent incidents. Here are some tips to follow:
1. Utilize Hand Tools: When digging within 24 inches of the marked underground lines, use hand tools rather than heavy machinery to minimize the risk of damaging utilities.
2. Leave Markers in Place: Do not remove flags, stakes, or paint marks provided by utility workers until the project is complete to avoid confusion.
3. Recognize Gas Leak Signs: Be extra vigilant. If you smell a sulfur-like odor (often compared to rotten eggs) or hear unusual hissing or roaring sounds, evacuate the area immediately and call 911, followed by notifying PGE at 800-743-5000.
Conclusion
As we approach National 811 Day, take a moment to reflect on the significance of this awareness campaign. Calling 811 before digging is a small action that can lead to substantial safety benefits, potentially saving you from hefty repair bills and ensuring a smoother execution of your projects. On this day, and every day, remember to call 811, know what’s below, and dig safely.
Topics Policy & Public Interest）
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