July 2008

Digging Soon? Call 811

 

Something about warm weather seems to spark plans for outdoor projects – swimming pools, gardens, fences and patios spring up in backyards across the state. But before you start any of these projects, it’s important to call 811 before you begin digging. If you don’t, plans might not be the only thing springing up or sparking.

Before you begin any digging or excavating project, it is important that you make a toll-free call to get underground utility lines marked. Not only is it important, it’s the law! The law requires that you notify utilities at least 48 hours prior to digging (excluding weekends, holidays and the day you call). However, it’s best to call about a week before you wish to begin a project.

Calling before you dig is now easier than ever. A national 811 number allows you to make one call to get your underground utility lines marked for free. These lines include gas, power, communication, water and others.

When you dial 811, your call is forwarded to the Utilities Protection Center in Georgia. They will record the location of the dig and then notify the affected utility companies of your digging plans. Your utility companies will dispatch a professional locating crew to mark the approximate location of your lines within a few days.

When you are digging, if you damage or disturb any utility, immediately call 811. Damaging a utility line can result in personal injury, property damage and expensive repairs. Any natural gas leak should be reported immediately to Atlanta Gas Light by calling 770/907-4231 (outside metro Atlanta dial 877/427-4321).

Don't forget that time, erosion or change in root structure can shift the locations of your utility lines. Remember to call again each time you are planning a digging job.

Be Sure to Call When:

• Planting trees or hedges
• Building a pond or pool
• Installing a fence
• Installing a deck or patio
• Doing concrete work

When in doubt, make the call!

 

Read other articles from The Walton EMC Gasette:

	What Do Those Colors Mean? Find out what utility each flag and spray paint color is marking.
	Top Ten Reasons to Call Before You Dig Funny, but true reasons to call 811.
	Gas Up the Stove This month's recipe features Banana Cake.

 

Recipes

Gas Up the Stove uses recipes from Walton EMC Natural Gas customers. Our customers are encouraged to submit their favorite and unique recipes to us throughout the year. Each month, one recipe is published in The Walton EMC Gasette for other customers to enjoy. The customers who get their recipe in the newsletter also receive a $25 credit toward their next Walton EMC Natural Gas bill.

Browse recipes featured in The Walton EMC Gasette.