Safe Digging Day Reminds to Call 811 Before Starting Projects

It’s August 11th, or “8-1-1”. The date serves as Safe Digging Day, a handy reminder of the Miss Dig 811 number that Michigan residents should always call before digging in the ground. Hitting a gas line while planting a tree could really ruin a seemingly simple home improvement project.

Bruce Campbell, CEO of MISS DIG 811, said, “Not only is contacting MISS DIG 811 free and easy, it’s also a legal requirement for anyone performing excavation work. Whether it’s a large professional excavation site, or a simple backyard project, calling 811 or utilizing missdig811.org will allow the utility providers in the area the opportunity to come out and mark the location of their underground lines”.

Miss Dig recommends that calls be made at least three days before digging will occur. It is totally free and a simple call alerts local utilities to mark the ground where utility lines are buried. 

Calling 811 can prevent unintentional hitting of gas, power, or water lines that can cause serious problems. Projects as small as putting in a new mailbox or as big as digging a foundation all require calling 811.

Reporting for WGRT- Jennie McClelland