(Spirit Lake)– It’s April and that means it’s “safe dig month”. Brad Henningsen, a damage prevention coordinator for Black Hills Energy, tells KUOO news it serves as an important reminder for contractors and individuals alike planning to do any construction work that involves digging…
“Of course we want every month to be safe digging month but following a check list of things to do before you do any digging, whether you’re a homeowner planting a shrub or a contractor using a backhoe, always, always call before you dig. At least two full business days in advance to have your utility lines marked. You can call 811 toll free; schedule online at Iowa One Call-dot-com; or download the Iowa 811 app. There’s absolutely no charge and after you call utility specialists will respond within 48 hours to mark the approximate location of your buried utility lines.”
Henningsen not only could it prevent you and others from harm and potential service interruptions, but it’s also the law…
“Failure to comply with the call before you dig law in Iowa can result in civil penalties, the cost and expense of repairs, and remember, too, that hitting an underground utility line could cause outages, injury or death. And if there is a natural gas line that’s damaged accidentally or if you smell the distinctive rotten egg odor associated with natural gas, leave the area immediately and then call 911.”
Henningsen says public safety and safety of their crews and employees are always a primary concern.
