Call 811 Before You Dig!
Summertime in the San Juan Islands – a perfect time to get out and enjoy the sights and sounds of the natural world around us. Islanders know that the summer months are the perfect time for long hikes, swims in the lake, and relaxing on the patio. But it’s also the optimal time to get all the home improvement, construction, and landscaping projects done. The nice weather and more minimal rain mean it’s the perfect time to cross those long-awaited projects off your to-do lists.
If you are someone who is looking to take advantage of the nicer weather to get some outdoor/home projects done and your project requires digging––such as planting trees, setting posts, or using an excavator––remember to keep electrical safety in mind and dial 811 first.
Underground utilities, such as buried gas, water and electric lines, can be a shovel thrust away from turning a home or outdoor project into a disaster.
Play it safe by dialing 811 or making a request online to find out where utility lines run on your property. Your call will be routed to a local “one call” center, where your request will be communicated to all the relevant utilities in the area. Be sure to tell the operator where you’re planning to dig and what type of work you will be doing with good detail.
In a few days, a locator will arrive to designate the approximate location of any underground lines, pipes, and cables. These areas will be marked with flags or paint so you’ll know what’s below. Then the safe digging can begin.
Although many homeowners tackling do-it-yourself digging projects are aware of “Call Before You Dig” services, the majority don’t take advantage of the service. A national survey showed that only 50 percent of homeowners called to have their lines marked before starting digging projects, according to the Common Ground Alliance (CGA), a federally mandated group of underground utility and damage prevention industry professionals. OPALCO data shows that since 2020, there have been 23 power outages due to contractor and member digs that have damaged undergrounded powerlines and infrastructure. Throughout the San Juan Islands, we have an extensive underground power system so calling 811 can keep you safe and the lights on.
Even simple tasks like installing a new mailbox post can damage utility lines, which can disrupt service to an entire neighborhood, create an unsafe work environment, and potentially result extensive repair costs.
Never assume the location or depth of underground utility lines. There’s no need: the 811 service is free, prevents the inconvenience of having utilities interrupted and can help you avoid serious injury. For more information about local services, visit www.call811.com.
