ARKANSAS, USA — Now that it's spring and temperatures are on the rise, people are ready to get out in the yard. But, one senior line locator with Black Hills Energy shares the importance of making a quick phone call before taking any shovels to your grass.
"It's very important to know what the law is about 811," Maribel Pablos said. "Just for simple tree install, it's important to call 811."
Pablos says there could be something under your yard that could be damaged if you start digging without calling.
"There's always gas lines, cable lines, or some things that are as simple as two inches underneath the ground.”
Other factors, such as erosion, can also turn a normal gardening day into an issue. That's why Pablos recommends following the rules and calling 811.
"There's still rules that have to be followed even when digging in. It is the law to follow," she said.
When you do call 811, a contractor will come find those important spots to avoid.
"It's important to mark them because it could jeopardize people's lives in the area if they do hit a gas [line]," Pablos said.
Several utilities can be marked, and each marking has a corresponding color. According to Black Hills Energy, these are the colors to look out for:
- White: Proposed construction
- Red: Electric
- Yellow: Gas, oil, steam
- Orange: Telephone and cable television
- Blue: Water
- Green: Sewer
- Purple: Reclaimed water
- Pink: Temporary survey markings
"Anything within a gas main within a two-foot radius, it is suggested to hand dig and/or expose that gas main," Pablos said.
Pablos says making the simple call will keep you and your neighbors safe.
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