April is National Safe Digging Month: Simple steps to dig safely

As Arkansans are beginning spring outdoor projects, Black Hills Energy has five steps for homeowners and contractors to dig safely and avoid hidden risks:

1. No matter how large or small the project, call 811 or submit a ticket at Arkansas811.com at least two full business days before you plan to dig.
2. Using white spray paint, stakes or flags, mark around your planned excavation site.
3. Wait for positive response. Confirm all utility locates are complete before breaking ground.
4. Respect the marked utility lines to carefully dig within the tolerance zone
5. If you do not dig within 10 Business days of having utility lines marked, contact Arkansas 811 again. 

Failure to comply with “Call Before You Dig” laws can result in civil penalties or the cost of expensive repairs. More importantly, hitting an underground utility line can cause widespread service outages or grave injuries.

If a natural gas line is damaged accidentally or you smell the distinctive rotten-egg odor associated with natural gas, immediately leave the area and first call 911 and then

Black Hills Energy at 888-890-5554

Visit blackhillsenergy.com/811 to learn more about safe digging practices. It’s free, safe and the law.