8/11 Reminds NIPSCO Residents To Contact 811 Before Digging
8/11 Reminds NIPSCO Residents To Contact 811 Before Digging
Posted
Staff Report-
8/11 Reminds NIPSCO Residents To Contact 811 Before DiggingMERRILLVILLE – In conjunction with National 811 Day today, NIPSCO hopes that 8/11 on the calendar serves as a natural reminder for residents to call 811 or visit Indiana811.org at least two business days before any digging project to have underground utility lines marked.
With the summer heat in full swing and more people spending time at home, homeowners turn to do-it-yourself (DIY) work in and around their yards. National 811 Day is an opportunity to remind folks of the importance of calling 811 at least two business days before digging, according to a news release from NIPSCO.
In 2020, 38% of damages occurred due to failure to call 811 before a digging project in Indiana. The primary cause of damages in the late summer was due to fence installations and landscaping projects. If you contact 811 before you dig, there’s less than a 1% chance of damaging a utility line.
When calling 811, homeowners and contractors are connected to Indiana 811, the local one-call center, which notifies the appropriate utility companies of their intent to dig. Requests can also be conveniently made online at Indiana811.org. Professional locators then arrive at the digging site to mark the approximate locations of underground lines with flags, spray paint or both. Requests should be made at least two business days before digging. This service is provided free of charge.
