April 14, 2020

Contractors and Homeowners Urged to call 811, Dig Safe Before Digging

Hallowell, Maine - April 14, 2019 - The Maine Public Utilities Commission (Commission) announced today that Governor Mills has proclaimed April 2020 as Safe Digging Month in Maine.

"We are pleased to join Governor Mills in raising awareness about safe digging practices across the state. As many Americans find themselves at home because of COVID-19, some may feel inclined to work outdoors and engage in home projects. We urge anyone involved in home or business excavation activities outdoors to exercise extreme caution. Not only can costly damage occur after hitting underground gas, electric, communications, water and sewer lines, such accidents can also pose serious health risks," said Philip L. Bartlett, Chairman of the Commission.

This April marks the 13th annual National Safe Digging Month, and we are reminding Maine residents to always call 811 at least three business days before any excavation project, Bartlett said.

When calling 811, homeowners and contractors are connected to Dig Safe, Inc., the local one call center, which notifies the appropriate utility companies of the planned excavation. Professional locators are then sent to the planned excavation site to mark the locations of underground lines with flags, paint or both.

Digging without first calling 811 to verify the location of underground utilities carries real risk -- every six minutes an underground utility line in the United States is damaged because someone decided to dig without first calling 811. Striking even a single line can cause serious injury, repair costs, and interruption of essential services.

By calling 811 to have the underground utility lines in the excavation area marked, homeowners and excavation professionals are making an important decision that can help keep them and their communities safe and connected. The Commission encourages Maine residents to visit www.digsafe.com or www.call811.com for more information about digging safely.

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About the Commission The Maine Public Utilities Commission regulates electric, telephone, water and gas utilities to ensure that Maine citizens have access to safe and reliable utility service at rates that are just and reasonable for all ratepayers. Commission programs include Maine Enhanced 911 Service and Dig Safe. Philip L. Bartlett, II serves as Chairman, Bruce Williamson and Randall Davis serve as Commissioners.

Learn more about the Commission at www.maine.gov/mpuc

Press Contact Name: Harry Lanphear, Administrative Director Phone: (207) 287-3831 Email: Harry.Lanphear@Maine.gov