Preventing Underground Utility Damage: Why One Phone Call Can Save Lives

As spring arrives and homeowners begin outdoor projects, utility companies are urging residents to take a crucial safety step before breaking ground: calling 811 to locate and mark underground utility lines. According to a recent survey by the Common Ground Alliance, approximately 27 million U.S. homeowners plan to dig this year without making this critical communication, potentially endangering themselves and their communities.

Pennsylvania law mandates that both homeowners and contractors contact 811 at least three business days before any excavation project, regardless of its size or complexity. This simple phone call can prevent costly damage, serious injury, and potentially life-threatening accidents involving underground infrastructure such as gas, water, electric, sewer, phone, and cable lines.

The process is straightforward and free for homeowners. When calling 811, individuals should be prepared to provide specific details about their project, including the location, type of work, method of excavation, and expected project duration. Utility companies will then send representatives to mark the underground lines with paint or flags, helping diggers avoid unintentionally striking critical infrastructure.

Chris Brown, UGI Utilities Vice President of Operations, emphasized the importance of this preventative measure: "UGI wants every dig on every project to be a safe one. Whether it is a small project or a major one, the same rule applies: call 811." The extra moment taken to make this call could potentially prevent serious accidents, property damage, and service disruptions.

Beyond underground utilities, the safety message extends to above-ground facilities. Utility companies warn that contact with overhead power lines can be equally dangerous, reminding workers and homeowners to maintain a safe distance from all utility infrastructure during outdoor projects.

With millions of potential excavations occurring annually, the call to 811 represents a critical first step in preventing utility-related accidents. By raising awareness during National Safe Digging Month, utility providers hope to reduce the number of potentially dangerous and costly incidents caused by uninformed digging.