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Date: 8/12/2016
GREATER SPRINGFIELD – Summer weather finds many people engaged in outdoor projects – everything from installing a mailbox, building a deck or planting a tree. With Aug. 11 here, Columbia Gas of Massachusetts reminds everyone that you should know what’s below before you dig. Every digging job requires a call to 811. It’s the Law.
Failure to call 811 and have all underground utilities located is the number one risk to public and personal safety for Columbia Gas of Massachusetts, and across the nation.
Anyone planning to dig on private or public property – no matter how big or small a project - must call Dig Safe at 811 at least 3 working days before the first shovel or backhoe bucket touches the dirt. It’s the law. Dig Safe, a “one-call center,” will notify all utilities, including gas, electric, telephone and cable companies with underground pipes and cables in the area. These utilities will visit the site and mark the location of their utilities in the construction area – at no charge.
Columbia Gas reminds any person planning to dig to follow four simple steps and dig with care around underground utilities:
Step 1: Plan and call ahead – Always call 811 at least three days before digging, regardless of the familiarity with the property.
Step 2: Allow required time for marking – Utility companies have 3 business days to mark their facilities. This does not include weekends or holidays.
Step 3: Respect and protect the marks – Do not cover up or destroy the utility markings as they indicate the approximate location of underground utilities. Contact the utility company if marks are destroyed.
Step 4: Excavate carefully – Hand digging is required above and beside the underground facility.
If during excavation or digging you discover a strong smell similar to “rotten eggs”, see dirt blowing or hear a hissing or whistling sound, follow these steps:
• Immediately leave the area;
• From a safe location away from the odor, call 911 and Columbia Gas at 800-525-8222;
•Warn others to stay away from the area;
• Leave windows and doors in their current position;
• Avoid open flames or anything that could spark ignition – including cell phones, lights, garage doors or other power equipment;
• Do not attempt to operate pipeline valve or try to correct the leak;
• When emergency personnel arrive explain the situation to them; and
• Do not assume someone else will report the condition.