Spring is here, and it’s the perfect time to get outside, roll up your sleeves, and make your yard shine. Some tasks may seem simple enough to grab a shovel and get started—planting a tree, installing a mailbox, or putting up a fence. But these are exactly the types of activities that can lead to accidents involving underground utility lines. 

That’s why, during National Safe Digging Month, we’re highlighting the importance of notifying 811 before you start digging. It’s simple, quick, and free, and can help you avoid a costly—and potentially dangerous—mistake. 

How 811 Works 

1. Notify 811 before you dig – Regardless of the project, always notify 811 at least two working days before you plan to start digging or excavating. You can either call 811 or visit 811BeforeYouDig.com to select your state and submit a ticket online.  

2. Mark the area – Use clear indicators such as stakes, flags, or painted lines to outline your proposed excavation site. White is the standard color used to mark proposed excavation areas. 

3. Confirm utilities have responded – Multiple utility companies may be notified for each request. Follow the instructions provided by the 811 operator or your ticket to confirm that all companies have responded after two working days. In Oklahoma and Texas, utility marks are valid for 14 days. In Arkansas, marks are valid for 20 working days, provided the project begins within 10 working days of the mark's issuance. If your project is delayed, be sure to have your lines marked again. 

4. Locate private lines – Homeowners are responsible for private lines such as sprinkler systems, gas grill lines, and invisible pet fences, so be sure to mark these before digging.

5. Dig around the lines – When you begin digging, work carefully around the marks—never directly on them. Lines can be buried at a shallow depth, so even a small shovel thrust can lead to a dangerous accident. 

Know the Colors 

When marking underground lines, local utilities use a universal color code to identify the type of utility buried below. Understanding these markings is key to safe digging: 

• Red - Electric power lines, cables, conduit and lighting cables 
• Yellow - Gas, oil, steam, petroleum or gaseous materials
• Orange - Communication, alarm or signal lines, cables or conduit
• Blue - Potable water
• Purple - Reclaimed water, irrigation and slurry lines
• Green - Sewers and drain lines
• White - Proposed excavation
• Pink - Temporary survey markings 

Responding to an Emergency 

In the event of a natural gas emergency, leave the area immediately on foot. Avoid using electrical devices or anything that could create a spark, and move upwind away from the leak or accident. 

Once you are in a safe location, call 911 and Summit Utilities at 800-992-7552. Warn others to stay clear of the area until emergency personnel arrive. 

Safe Digging Is No Accident 

By notifying 811 before you dig, you help protect your family, your property, and the underground infrastructure our communities rely on. 

Looking for more natural gas safety tips? Visit our safety page to learn more.