So it’s finally time to put that power line in to your new shop. Or maybe it’s ready to put that foundation in for the client’s home. Before you rev up your trencher, excavator, or backhoe, think a moment…what do you need to do before you start digging? The last thing you want to do is hit a gas line or power main. That would turn a simple project into an expensive debacle really quick. So….call before you dig. 811 (not 911–that can get you into trouble since it’s not yet an emergency) is the standard, nationwide “One-Call” pre-dig number along with the local One Call number. You’re calling the regional One Call Notification Center either way. They will get your exact location and send over several crews to mark out public utilities (electric, water, sewer, phone, TV, gas and so on) near your dig site – free.
They will generally use the APWA (American Public Works Association) Uniform Color Code (shown left) marking system to tell you exactly what the lines are – white for your proposed excavation, red for electric lines and so on. Now you’re ready to dig away – away from underground hazards.
Learn more at the Local One Call Center website (udig.org) and the official 811 website. Happy Digging!