With warmer weather drawing homeowners outdoors for yard projects, Summit Natural Gas of Missouri reminds residents to prioritize safety by using the 811 service during National Safe Digging Month.
April marks a nationwide campaign urging homeowners and contractors to locate underground utility lines before starting projects like planting trees, installing fences or building patios. Digging without knowing what lies beneath the surface can damage utility lines, leading to injuries, service outages and costly repairs.
“Even simple spring projects like planting trees or setting mailbox posts can result in striking a gas line if proper precautions are not taken,” said Vernon McNully, Summit's vice president of operations. “Notifying 811 before you dig is required by law and is the easiest way to protect yourself and your neighbors.”
The free service notifies local utility companies to mark approximate locations of underground gas, electric, water and communications lines. Residents should call 811 or submit an online request at least two to three business days before digging. Once lines are marked, individuals must dig carefully, using hand tools near the indicated areas.
For more information, visit www.summitutilities.com.
