FARMERSBURG, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — On August 11, CenterPoint Energy is taking advantage of the date to remind people to contact 811 before making any changes or digging on their property.

National 811 Day encourages people to call the free request line before digging to avoid damaging utility lines and pipes. This day acts as a reminder for anyone who plans to dig to contact 811 before they do any digging project to have underground utility lines marked out.

“On Aug. 11 and throughout the year, we remind homeowners and professional contractors to use the free 811 service before digging to reduce the risk of striking an underground utility line,” said Chasta Martin, Vice President, Field Services for CenterPoint Energy. “Calling 811 or visiting Call811.com is the only way to know which utilities are buried in your area so that you can dig safely and keep your community safe and connected.” 

An underground utility line is damaged every few minutes because someone began digging without contacting 811 first. Those looking to start a project that includes digging should contact 811 to request that local utility companies mark the locations of buried electric, natural gas, water, telecommunications, and cable lines.

By not calling 811, residents could run the risk of hitting a line which can cause repair costs, inconvenient service outages and fines, severe injuries, and even death.

More information about pipeline safety can be found on Center Point Energy‘s Call Before You Dig webpage.