April is National Safe Digging Month
When spring arrives, people start to dig in their yards, plant flowers, trees, and perform other landscaping activities. Did you know that you could damage Georgia’s underground utility system by cutting a line when you begin to dig? The month of April is National Safe Digging Month, and the City of Douglas Utilities Department, wants you to dig safely.
According to Georgia 811, Georgia law mandates that, before beginning any mechanized digging or excavation work, you must contact Georgia 811 by using eRequest on www.Georgia811.com or by calling 811 or 1-800-282-7411 at least 48 hours but no more than 10 working days in advance to have utility lines marked.
It is not required by Georgia law to notify the Georgia 811 if a smaller, non-mechanized digging project is planned, however, it is encouraged for residents to do so to ensure personal safety and the safety of those around them. These projects can include installing a fence, deck, swing set or mail box; planting trees or landscaping. This notification system provides Georgia 811 members an opportunity to locate and identify any underground utilities in an area where digging is planned.