Southwest Gas urges contractors and DIYers to
"Call 811 Before You Dig"
LAS
VEGAS, Aug. 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Want to
avoid digging trouble? Call 811 before using your shovel! National
811 Day is right around the corner. Recognized on August 11 each year, it's the perfect time to
remind the public of the importance of calling 811 to have
utility-owned lines marked for free. Calling 811 or placing an
online request at call811.com at least two working days before
beginning your project can help prevent accidents, service outages,
and avoidable damage that can be dangerous to the community. The
service is free, and it's the law.
Many people may not realize that utility lines can be buried
underground, so it's important to know what's below. Safe
digging practices are essential to remember year-round, not only
near August 11. From large contractor
projects to DIY garden renovators, everyone needs to call
811.
National data shows that failure to call 811 to have lines
marked before digging is the number one cause of damage to
underground utility lines.
After you've called 811 and before you start digging, it's
important to remember the following:
- Verify that all lines have been marked with paint or
flags.
- Do not allow work to begin if the lines are not marked.
- Consider moving the project location if it's near utility line
markings.
Southwest Gas reminds anyone who thinks they may have damaged an
underground natural gas line, even if they're not a natural gas
customer, to leave the area immediately and call 911 and Southwest
Gas at 877-860-6020. A natural gas leak can be detected by a
distinct sulfur-like odor, similar to rotten eggs, even if it's
faint or momentary; an unusual hissing or roaring sound coming from
the ground or appliance; or blowing dirt, bubbling water, or
discolored plants or grass surrounding natural gas infrastructure
or pipeline markers.
For more information about 811 and natural gas safety,
visit www.swgas.com/safety. For more information on safe
digging practices, visit www.swgas.com/dig-safe
About Southwest Gas
Southwest Gas Corporation is a dynamic energy company committed to
exceeding the expectations of our over two million customers
throughout Arizona, California, and Nevada by providing safe and reliable service
while innovating sustainable energy solutions to fuel our
communities' growth. For more information about how Southwest Gas
is supporting a sustainable energy future, please
visit swgas.com/sustainability.
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SOURCE Southwest Gas Corporation