August 11 is National Safe Dig Day and Atmos Energy is reminding citizens to call 8-1-1 before you dig on your property, in an effort to keep costs and injuries down.
According to a news release, calling ahead of time before digging to see where your utility lines are located, no matter how big or small the project, can help avoid or minimize harm to people, property, and the environment by proactively identifying potential risks and implementing solutions to prevent incidents before they occur. Kentucky law requires homeowners, excavation companies, and contractors to call 811 three business days before digging.
When using this free service, the caller is connected to a local call center that notifies area utility companies of the location where digging will occur. Professional locators then arrive at the digging site to mark the approximate locations of underground lines with flags, spray paint, or both.
Public Affairs Manager Kay Coomes says, ““Utility lines must be properly located and marked even when digging just a few inches or in a location that was previously marked. Installing a mailbox, building a deck, planting a tree, and laying a patio are just a few examples of common digging projects that should only be done after calling 811.”
For more information about 811 and safe digging practices, visit Kentucky 811 or the Atmos Energy website for safety tips.