A crucial step for yard improvement projects is having underground utilities marked
Dig smart this spring. When digging on your property for plantings, fencing, decks or other home improvement projects, it’s important to safely plan ahead, according to experts at Gopher State One Call. “Hitting an underground electrical wire or gas line can be dangerous and costly for a homeowner or business,” says Olivia Phillips, Senior Marketing and Public Awareness Specialist for Gopher State One Call -- the Minnesota non-profit organization that coordinates marking of utilities prior to digging or excavation projects.
“It’s amazingly easy to stay safe. All people have to do is click onto our website, www. gopherstateonecall.org or call 8-1-1,” Phillips said. “And here’s the kicker – it’s FREE.”
Phillips said that all homeowners or businesses must contact Gopher State One Call at least three business days before digging. For example, she said, if you plan to dig on a Saturday, ensure that you submit your request prior to 2 p.m. the previous Wednesday. Free of charge, utility company professional locators will mark all public utilities on your property with spray paint and/or flags, keeping you and your family safe.
Failing to have utility lines marked can result in serious consequences, including gas leaks, electrical service disruptions and expensive repairs.
“It’s wise to have property marked for any and all projects that require digging, including tree planting, deck building or fencing,” Phillips said.
“We want homeowners to stay safe,” she said. “It’s as simple as that.”
It’s also the law, she said. Gopher State Once Call was established by the state legislature about 35 years ago after a terrible natural gas explosion occurred when a pipeline was struck during an excavating project. Now, all digging requires advance marking.
“The marking process is also about peace of mind,” Phillips said. “Every homeowner or excavator can be confident they’re significantly reducing the risk of injury and expense.” For “weekend warriors,” GopherState One Call encourages homeowners to plan ahead and make a marking request by going online or calling 8-1-1 by midday Wednesday so there’s plenty of time for utilities to be marked for a weekend project. Digging should not start until utilities are marked.
“Plan ahead to stay safe by clicking www.gopherstateonecall. org or calling 8-1-1 or before every dig,” Phillips said. “Even if you’ve caught spring fever, you’ll feel better knowing you’ve taken the right precautions before digging.”
ABOUT GOPHER STATE ONE CALL: Gopher State One Call was established by state law in 1987, following a horrendous pipeline accident explosion in Mounds View, MN. It is governed by a volunteer board of about 20 directors representing utilities, excavators and other safety-minded individuals. More information on scheduling marking before your dig is available at www.gopherstateonecall. org.
