JACKSON,
Mich., Aug. 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- In
recognition of National Safe Digging Day (Aug. 11 or 8-1-1 Day), Consumers Energy is
offering tips and reminders for safe digging.
"Not only is contacting 8-1-1 before every dig project an easy
and responsible way to ensure you're keeping yourself, your friends
and your neighbors safe when you dig — it is also the law," said
Holly Bowers, vice president of gas
engineering and supply for Consumers Energy. "This free resource
doesn't just protect from a minor inconvenience; it helps customers
avoid injury, property damage, or even financial loss. Accidentally
striking an underground pipeline or electric line can have serious
and even fatal repercussions, so you should always know what is
below."
Bowers reminds customers that safe digging tips include:
- Calling MISS DIG (8-1-1) or
visiting MISSDIG811.org at least 3 business days before
beginning a project.
- MISS DIG will contact the appropriate companies to have
underground lines marked with stakes, flags or paint, at no cost to
the customer.
- Remember that the stakes, flags or paint put down by MISS DIG
show only a rough estimate of the location of underground utility
facilities; avoid digging within 4 feet of marked lines if
possible.
- If digging must occur within 4 feet of markers, use hand tools
to carefully expose buried lines; only once they have been located
can you utilize power equipment to complete the excavation.
MISS DIG recently announced the relocation of its headquarters
to Lansing, where it can
expand on its work to educate and train the community on safe
digging through the use of its new facility.
When it comes to dealing with natural gas lines, it is important
to remember:
- If you smell natural gas (a rotten egg odor) or suspect a leak,
leave the area right away.
- Don't try to find the source of the leak.
- Don't use an electrical device.
- Call 9-1-1 and 800-477-5050.
If you think you hit or nicked a natural gas line, you should
immediately call 800-477-5050.
For more information about Consumers Energy, go to
ConsumersEnergy.com.
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SOURCE Consumers Energy