Gov. Laura Kelly has declared the month of April as Kansas Safe Digging Month, in alignment with National Safe Digging Month. Kansans are reminded to call 811 before starting any outdoor digging projects to have utility lines marked and prevent injuries, property damage, and outages. Various organizations including the Kansas Corporation Commission and Kansas 811 are encouraging excavators and homeowners to make the call before digging to ensure safety.
Statistics show that 26 percent of damages reported nationwide are caused by failure to call 811 before digging, with telecom and natural gas facilities being the most frequently damaged. Dialing 811 connects callers to Kansas 811, which alerts utility companies of the intent to dig. Requests for line locates can also be made online at least two working days before the start of projects.
The KCC is responsible for investigating any concerns related to underground utility locates and provides ongoing education and training opportunities for excavators. By following proper procedures and calling 811 before digging, Kansans can help prevent accidents and ensure the safety of their communities.
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