Unfortunately, not enough people know they need to call 811 before they dig, or if they do know, they choose not to – thinking that it is too much of a bother. Even though the process is quite simple, a staggering 45% of homeowners who plan to dig this year said they would NOT call 811 beforehand. This is a decision that puts themselves and their neighbors at risk.
Being in the industry, I know how important it is to call before I dig, but at a recent Home Owners Association meeting I was surprised to find many of my neighbors did not know they needed to call 811 before starting a project that involved digging, even a small project like planting a tree.
Please make sure that calling 811 before starting a digging project is a topic at your neighborhood meetings and if your neighborhood has a Facebook page, share the information and a link to the Call 811 website.
August 11, or 8/11, is designated as Call 811 Before You Dig Awareness Day, so be educated, be aware, and always Call 811 Before You Dig.
Barbara Hasbini, community relations specialist senior and 19-year Williams employee, wrote this post.