Every year on August 11, communities and utility providers across the country recognize 811 Day – a reminder that one simple call or online request can help protect people, property, and essential underground infrastructure.
When dialing 811, callers connect to New Jersey One Call, the state center that notifies the appropriate utility companies of the caller’s intent to dig. Professional locators are then sent to the proposed digging site to mark the approximate locations of underground lines with flags or spray paint.
This year, we were proud to partner with the New Jersey Common Ground Alliance (NJCGA) to help spread the word about safe digging.
Our employees had a unique opportunity to celebrate 811 Day as a banner plane flew over our South Jersey Gas headquarters with the reminder, “Know what’s below. Call before you dig.” The event gave our team a chance to come together while reinforcing the important role that every person plays in supporting damage prevention.
Calling 811 is free, easy, and required by law before most excavation projects. After submitting a request, utility companies can mark the approximate location of underground lines, helping contractors plan their work safely and avoid potentially dangerous or costly damage.
Underground utility lines are out of sight, but they should never be out of mind. Whenever you're planning a project that requires digging in your yard (gardening, landscaping, home improvements, demolition, etc.), call 811 or visit 811beforeyoudig.com first, and take the following precautions:
- Have utility lines marked before you dig.
- Avoid damage to underground lines that could cause service disruption, property damage, or injury.
- Plan in advance to avoid damage, repairs, project delays and costly fines.
To learn more or submit an online request, please visit 811beforeyoudig.com. For more information about South Jersey Gas, please visit https://southjerseygas.com/.
