Focusing on public safety, Atmos Energy is observing August 11 as annual 811 Day to remind citizens of the precautions that need to be taken prior to starting digging projects.
Those planning a digging project are required by law to call 811 two days prior to doing any digging on their property to ensure that they are not digging in the path of utility lines.
A news release from Atmos Energy says 811 should be called regardless of the depth of the dig because the depth of utility lines can vary as a result of erosion, uneven surfaces and prior digging projects.
Some projects that require one to call 811 according Atmos Energy are mailbox installations, deck building, patio laying and tree planting. After 811 is called regarding a dig project professional locators will survey the site and mark the locations of underground lines.
Striking a utility line while digging can lead to injury, utility outages, fines and restoration costs.
Graphic courtesy of Atmos Energy