It’s August 11, or 8/11, and you know what that means… It’s National 811 Call Before You Dig Day! As a reminder to residents and excavators alike, calling 811 to locate your utilities before you dig underground is for your own safety! Having your utilities marked-out is a nationally free service and it is also the law in every state.
Tennessee 811 says, “40% of active diggers don’t contact 811 before digging because they think their project is too shallow to require it. The truth is utilities can be buried just inches below the surface…”
National 811 explains, “Hitting a buried line while digging can disrupt utility service, cost money to repair, or cause serious injury or death.”
Have you seen colored markings on the ground? Ever wondered what the colors mean? 811 North Carolina says:
Colorado 811 gives detailed stats on things like how many calls and tickets are processed, average wait times, and more!
811 Texas offers a great, detailed explanation of what utilities lie underground!
The 811 of MA, ME, NH, RI, VT offer lots of information with the MUST group- Managing Underground Safety Training here
811 South Carolina has an awesome Instagram page, where they post about events and tips for everyone here
Homeowners everywhere can learn more about the process and what to expect here and find your state’s 811 website here to learn more about your state specific processes and laws.
Bottom line? No matter where you live, 811 has your back. Remember to always give ‘em a call before YOU dig!