Half of Americans are "active diggers," meaning they've done or are planning some type of digging project at home. But only a third call to get utility lines marked before excavating, according to a report by the Common Ground Alliance.
An underground utility line is damaged during digging projects once every three minutes in the U.S. As an employee of an oil pipeline company, I find that alarming. The consequences of striking an underground utility reach beyond our industry. Pipeline strikes impact communities, neighborhoods and lives.
But dialing 811 is a simple solution. Whether you're working in your backyard or are a professional excavator, 811 applies. There are many reasons to call 811 before turning dirt.
First, 811 is free and convenient. When calling 811, an excavator is connected to the local one-call center. Locators are sent to mark the approximate location of utilities, including pipelines, within two business days.
Second, 811 takes guesswork out of excavating. Every digging project warrants a call to 811, even when digging only a few inches. Depth of utility lines can vary and change over time. The pipeline marker should never be used to determine the pipeline's exact location.
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Finally, 811 is an important step in protecting yourself, your family and the community. Striking an underground utility, including pipelines, could disrupt vital services to your neighborhood and lead to expensive fines and repairs. Also, you could harm yourself or others.
Today, Aug. 11, is 811 Day in the U.S., a reminder of the importance of calling before every digging project. Enbridge is proud to be involved in industry awareness efforts, and we rely on people who live near pipelines to dig safely and promote safe digging to others. Always call before digging. The safety of family, friends and neighbors may depend upon it.
Mark Willoughby
Superior
The writer is general manager for Enbridge's Superior Region.
