The Importance of 811: Call Before You Dig
What is 811?
811 is a nationwide call-before-you-dig service established to help prevent damage to underground utility lines. When someone plans to dig, they can call 811 to have utility companies come to mark the locations of their lines.
Why Call 811?
Calling 811 before you dig is crucial because:
- Safety: It reduces the risk of accidents and injuries from striking buried utility lines.
- Cost Savings: Preventing damage to utility lines can save you from expensive repairs and fines.
- Legal Compliance: Many states require you to call 811 before commencing any digging activities.
How to Use 811
Using the 811 service is straightforward:
- Prepare Your Call: Before calling, know the location of your digging site.
- Call 811: Dial 811, provide details of your planned digging, and indicate your location.
- Wait for Marking: Utility companies will mark their lines, typically within 2-3 business days.
What Happens After Calling?
Once you call 811, a representative will gather your information and notify local utility companies. They will send out professionals to mark the locations of underground lines using colors specific to each type of utility, such as:
| Utility Type | Marking Color |
|---|---|
| Electric | Yellow |
| Natural Gas | Green |
| Water | Blue |
| Wastewater | Pink |
Safety Tips
To ensure safety when digging:
- Always wait for marks before you start digging.
- Use hand tools when digging near marked utility lines.
- Stay cautious and proceed slowly when you get close to utility lines.