Over the past few months, the fire department has responded to a higher volume of gas leaks than normal. This is mainly due to new gas lines being installed throughout the Glade.

However, a few have been at the expense of the residents. Below are some tips from "811 Call Before You Dig"

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Do I Really Need to Call?

YES! Don’t make a judgment call; make a phone call to 811. Homeowners often make risky assumptions about whether or not they should get their utility lines marked, but every digging job requires a call - even "small" projects like planting trees and shrubs. 

 

I am only planting a small flower bed or bush...

Did you know that many utilities are buried just a few inches below ground? You can easily hit a line when digging for simple gardening projects, like planting flowers or small shrubs. Make the call to 811 anytime you’re putting a shovel in the ground to keep yourself and your community safe.

 

I am just installing a mailbox...

Buried utility lines are everywhere! Installing mailboxes and fences are examples of projects that absolutely require a call to 811 to know what’s below before digging. Hitting a line can knock out service to your home and neighborhood or result in fines, damage and serious injury. Don’t make a judgment call – make the call to 811 every time you dig.

 

I am digging in a spot that was previously marked...

Erosion and root system growth can alter the depth or location of buried lines, or your utility companies may have completed work on their lines since the last time you dug – so you must call 811 before you dig, each and every time.

 

I have hired a contractor or landscaper to do the digging project...

Be sure to check with your contractor or landscaper to make sure that the call to 811 will be made before digging begins – whether it means you making the call, or your contractor doing so. Never let digging work begin without the call to 811! It’s not worth the risk.

 

I am only digging in a small area and don't want my entire yard marked...

If you are only planning to dig in a small portion of your yard, you can outline the area in white paint or white flags available at home improvement stores to ensure that only the utilities in that part of your yard will be located and marked. Be sure to let your 811 operator know about your plans, and he or she will help ensure the proper area is marked by utility locators.

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Thank you 

Kirk McLaughlin

Fire Chief