August 10th, 2016 by WCBC Radio
The Public Service Commission of West Virginia reminds residents to call 811 before they dig on Thursday, August 11 (8/11) and every other day. If your home improvement or DIY project requires you to dig, it also requires a call to West Virginia 811 before you begin. This is especially important after events such as the recent floods because buildings have shifted, landmarks have changed and debris and mud cover much of the ground in areas, making it difficult to determine the actual location of services.
Calling 811 is always a free service.
With cool weather approaching, people are planning outdoor projects, and the 8/11 date on the calendar is a natural reminder to call West Virginia 811 a few days before beginning any digging project. The depth of utility lines varies and lines can move when the ground freezes and thaws or when an area receives a large amount of rain. When you dig, you run the risk of hitting an underground utility, even if you are only digging a few inches. Striking a pipeline, wire or cable can cause serious personal injury or death, as well as costly repairs, fines or utility service outages in the surrounding area.
After you call West Virginia 811, the appropriate utility companies will be notified of your intent to dig. Within 48 hours, professional locators from each company will be sent to the project site to mark the approximate locations of underground lines with flags and paint. Once lines have been accurately marked, you or your contractor can begin digging safely.
“The August 11 date reminds us of the importance of calling 811 to avoid the danger of striking utility lines when digging. Today and every day, we urge both homeowners and professional contractors to always call 811 before digging,” said Michael Albert, Chairman of the Public Service Commission of West Virginia. “A free call to 811 can protect the public as well as the underground utility infrastructure.”
Call 811 or 800-245-4848 before all digging projects. For more information about West Virginia 811, visit www.wv811.com or www.psc.state.wv.us.
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