SCE&G Observes National Safe Digging Month

Construction and digging activity increases in the spring

Cayce, S.C. (April 11, 2017) – Each year, warmer temperatures bring an increase in construction and home improvement activity, and in observation of National Safe Digging Month, SCE&G reminds homeowners and contractors to call 811 three full business days before a shovel hits the ground. By calling 811 to have their utilities marked, homeowners and contractors can avoid the hassles, dangers and costs that may arise with utility line dig-ins.

Projects that require a call to 811 include:

• Planting a tree, bush or flower bed

• Installing a mailbox, fence or underground sprinkler system

• Building a deck

• Laying a patio

• Moving a road

“Calling 811 to have utilities marked is really the only way to know where utilities are buried in your yard or work area,” said Greg McGlohorn, general manager of construction, operations and maintenance for SCE&G’s natural gas business. “While natural gas lines are typically installed 18 to 36 inches below ground, factors like erosion and grading can sometimes cause utility lines to be just a few inches below the surface.”

Dig-ins are the greatest threat utilities face to the safety of its underground infrastructure, and a call to 811 can prevent traffic delays, fines, repair costs, inconvenient outages and injuries. Calling 811 is required by state law, and the utility location service is provided at no charge.

For more information on National Safe Digging Month observations in South Carolina, including free tree giveaways, visit http://sc811.com/safe-dig-month/.