Spring weather typically brings an increase in outside projects that may require digging or excavation work around your home or business.
A news release says before you start digging on any project, the Missouri Public Service Commission reminds homeowners and businesses to call 8-1-1 or 1-800-DIG-RITE (344-7483) or go online to place a locate request at www.mo1call.com so that underground utilities can be marked.
Missouri Public Service Commission Chairman Ryan Silvey says: “Before any digging or excavation work begins, it is very important that the Missouri One Call Center be contacted. Help protect yourself, your family and your property by making sure you call or click before you dig. It’s smart and it’s the law.”
Whether you are planting a tree, building a deck or completing a large project, Missouri law requires anyone digging underground to call 8-1-1 or 1 (800) DIG-RITE (344-7483) at least three working days before excavation begins. The call will be taken by the Missouri One Call Center, which then notifies all relevant utilities in the project area.
During this three-day period, the utilities will mark the approximate location of underground lines, request additional information or advise you that they do not have facilities at the excavation site.
Hitting an underground line can cause serious injury; disrupt service to you and other customers; and potentially result in fines and repair costs.