By NICK GOSNELL
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — It only takes a few seconds to damage a buried pipeline, but the consequences could last much longer. To prevent hit gas lines and unnecessary outages, homeowners and excavators should always call 811 to have utility lines marked prior to any digging project. That’s why Kansas Gas Service is joining other utilities in recognizing Tuesday, August 11 (8/11) as National 811 Day.
"What we want to do is make sure that our customers, that Kansas residents stay safe," said spokesperson Dawn Tripp. "That includes digging projects. Whether its a small project like installing a new fencepost or mailbox or planting a tree to a larger excavation, there's no way you can know what lies underneath the ground without calling first."
Kansas Gas Service wants to make sure everyone knows how to dig safely to avoid injury and protect the community from an outage. Underground utility lines may be found in their yards or below their sidewalks, driveways or streets.
"Make that call and don't count that day that you call," Tripp said. "Add two full business days beyond that. You should get a confirmation of the underground utility lines that have been marked. If you submit your request online, you will get that confirmation and if you have any questions and you're unsure, please contact Kansas 811 to verify that those lines have been marked."
To learn more about safe digging, visit BeADigHeroKansas.com