NICK GOSNELL
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — April is Safe Digging Month in Kansas and Dawn Tripp with Kansas Gas Service is encouraging all Kansans to be a dig hero and call ahead before putting a shovel into the ground.
"When spring arrives, that means that a lot of us are going to start taking on projects that we forgot about during the winter," Tripp said. "Whether it's planting a bush or a shrub or installing a new deck or fence, it's important that we're all aware of what we need to do first and that's to call 8-1-1."
That allows an expert to come out and mark the ground for where utilities are located.
"This year, we're pretty excited, because we've enlisted some help in spreading the word about safe digging from a group of superpowered dig heroes," Tripp said.
If you go to beadigherokansas.com, you can sign the safe digging pledge and be entered for a chance to win a $100 gift card. You can also download coloring pages for the kids and teach them what each of the colored flags placed by the utility locator signifies.
"You need to call ahead at least a minimum of two full working days before you start your digging project," Tripp said. "There's no charge for this service. You can call or you can even submit a request online."
By law, you must use reasonable care when digging within 24 inches, in all horizontal directions, of an underground facility.