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Call 811 Before You Dig

National Consumer / Utility Protection Hotline

By Bob Formisano, About.com


A new federally-mandated FCC designated number of 811 is being implemented to eliminate the confusion caused by multiple “Call Before You Dig” numbers. Once you call 811 local One Call Center personnel notify the appropriate utility companies who send crews to mark underground lines at your home construction site for free.

Often homeowners will dig deep (no not just financially, into dirt!) for landscaping or deck projects. In fact a recent survey identified about 50% of American homeowners are "active diggers" but rarely think about the importance of getting their utility lines marked.

Why is this important? Because once the location of your underground utility lines have been marked you can dig safely protecting your neighborhood infrastructure, you and your family.

To find out more about your state's requirements for digging visit 811's State Specific Information.

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