Submitted by Eversource Energy
(August 11, 2025) — In recognition of National Safe Digging Day (8/11), Eversource is reminding customers to always call 8-1-1 before starting any project that requires digging, whether it’s as basic as planting a shrub or tree, or as complex as installing a deck or pool.
Statistics show that excavation work causes damage to underground utility lines every six minutes in the U.S., and a simple call to 8-1-1 in advance of digging to mark those underground lines can not only avoid electric or natural gas service interruptions, but also possible injury or even death. According to the US Department of Transportation, if someone calls 8-1-1 before they dig, they have a 99% chance of avoiding an outage or a catastrophe.
“With more than twenty million miles of underground utilities crisscrossing the country – including electric, natural gas, phone, cable, internet and water lines – it’s crucial that people know what’s under the ground before they lift a shovel or start up an excavator,” said Eversource Vice President of Safety, Training and Fleet Operations Cliff Williams. “Call Before You Dig is required by law and is the best way to avoid a potentially dangerous incident or service issue. The free and easy process will help plan your project safely and protect your finances, so it’s always worth taking the extra step to ‘call before you dig.’”
Call Before You Dig (CBYD) oversees safe digging practices in Connecticut and offers a one-call system to locate and mark underground facilities that are near proposed excavation areas. By calling 8-1-1 at least two full working days before starting the job, homeowners and contractors are connected with CBYD, which notifies local utilities of any scheduled digging activities. Professionals then visit the property to mark utility-owned underground lines with flags and/or spray paint to indicate areas to be avoided.
Some essential tips to remember:
- Regardless of the depth of the digging or familiarity with the property, always contact 8-1-1 before starting a project.
- Whether using power equipment or hand tools such as axes, shovels or posthole diggers, the law requires notifying CBYD at least two business days in advance of a project that requires digging or excavation work.
- Underground electric, gas, communication and water lines can be located anywhere. Know what’s below to avoid injury and damage to utility lines.
- Hitting a utility line can lead to injury, repair costs, fines and service outages.
For more information about Call Before You Dig, visit www.cbyd.com.
