DOVER, Del. – Chesapeake Utilities Corporation is committed to promoting safe digging practices year-round, and National 8-1-1 Day serves as a valuable reminder of the importance of taking proactive steps to prevent damage to essential infrastructure. By following these guidelines before beginning any outdoor digging project, individuals contribute to the preservation of vital utilities, protection of the environment and the safety of their communities.
Safe Digging Guidelines
Contact 8-1-1: Before beginning any digging project, whether it’s planting a tree, installing a fence or any other outdoor activity that involves excavation, call 8-1-1 or visit call811.com for an online request in your state. State law mandates that individuals must notify the local utility notification center at least two business days prior to digging. This step ensures that utility lines are properly located and marked, preventing accidental damage. The service is free.
Wait for Marks: After contacting 8-1-1, wait for utility representatives to mark the location of underground lines using color-coded flags. Hand digging is advised within 18 inches of these markings to avoid any accidental damage.
Use Caution Near Gas Lines: While marks indicate the general location of utility lines, they may not provide exact information on the depth or orientation of the lines. Exercise caution and dig carefully to avoid any potential hazards.
Maintain Clearances: Be mindful of the recommended clearance distances around utility lines when operating heavy equipment or performing excavation work.
“On Aug. 11 and throughout the year, we remind homeowners and professional contractors alike to call 8-1-1 before digging to eliminate the risk of striking an underground utility line,” said Andrena Burd, assistant vice president of risk management. “There is nothing more important than the safety of our team, our customers and our communities.”
For more information about Chesapeake Utilities Corporation and their commitment to safety, please visit chpk.com/safety.
About Chesapeake Utilities Corporation
Chesapeake Utilities Corporation is a diversified energy delivery company, listed on the New York Stock Exchange. Chesapeake Utilities Corporation offers sustainable energy solutions through its natural gas transmission and distribution, electricity generation and distribution, propane gas distribution, mobile compressed natural gas utility services and solutions and other businesses. For more information, visit www.chpk.com.
Please note that Chesapeake Utilities Corporation is not affiliated with Chesapeake Energy, an oil and natural gas exploration company headquartered in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
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For more information, contact:
Brianna Patterson
Manager, Public Relations and Strategic Communications
419-314-1233
[email protected]
