It may sound like a trivial thing, but every 6 minutes an underground utility line is damaged because someone decided to dig without calling 811 first. It’s a simple phone call, and it’s even free. So, why don’t people call?
Well, I have my theories. So, in honor of David Letterman, here are my top 10 reasons people don’t have underground lines marked before they dig in their yards.
10. The red and yellow spray-painted dots and dashes on my lawn ruin the feng shui of my landscape.
9. What? There’s stuff in the ground? I thought it came through my wifi.
8. I’ve got a metal detector, so I can find my own lines.
7. I didn’t want the cable company to know I was getting free cable.
6. I’m only going to dig with a shovel…I mean, how much damage could I do?
5. I used to work for a contractor. I’m skilled with a backhoe and a shovel.
4. I called before starting a project about 5 years ago, and I remember where the marks were.
3. I’ve got solar panels on my roof, so I don’t have electric lines underground.
2. By the time I updated Facebook, shared pics on Instagram and did a little SnapChatting, my phone died.
And, the number one reason people don't have underground lines marked before they did in their yards...
1. The dog has been digging holes all over my yard for years and has never hit anything.
Okay, I’ve had my fun, now let’s get serious. Here are answers to common questions about having underground lines marked.
Who should contact 811?
Everyone who plans to dig! Do-it-yourselfers, homeowners, landscapers and contractors need to call prior to all digging projects - large or small. It’s the law in Colorado.
Why should people contact 811?
In a word: safety. Calling 811 or visiting colorado811.org reduces the risk of hitting underground lines, which can lead to serious injuries or even death, disrupted service to an entire community, and potential fines and repair costs.
How does 811 work?
You call 811 or visit colorado811.org at least three days before you plan to start digging. A technician is sent to identify and mark the approximate location of the underground lines. It’s that simple.
Isn’t it worth contacting 811 now to avoid calling 911 later?
