National 811 Day reminds all to 'Call 811 Before Digging'

National 811 day is on 8/11 and used as a time to remind the public to call 811 before digging.

This important day is set aside to remind people there are thousands of miles of underground utilities buried in our communities. This includes natural gas, electricity, communications, water, sewer and other essential services people in our communities rely on. Whether you are a homeowner or contractor, digging without calling 811 to mark these lines is a potentially dangerous and disruptive risk people should not take.

Unfortunately, too many people in the United States will dig this year without first having underground utility-owned lines properly marked. The most recent data from Common Ground Alliance estimates more than 450,000 damages were made to underground lines in 2019. In addition, the leading cause of damages is noted as failure to call before digging.

It’s unfortunate because calling 811 before digging can help avoid the
dangers and the disruption of essential services to homes and businesses.
To take much of the risk out of digging, Southwest Gas reminds people to Contact 811 at least two full working days before digging. Utility companies will come to you and locate and mark the underground lines, pipes and cables at or near a planned dig site.

If not in a Southwest Gas customer, call your local utilities.

A natural gas leak can be detected by a distinct sulfur-like odor, like rotten eggs, even if it’s faint or momentary. Unusual hissing or roaring from the ground or an above-ground pipeline, bubbling water and discolored plants or grass surrounding a pipeline can also be signs of a leak.

- Southwest Gas press release