April has been designated as National Safe Digging Month, according to the Arkansas Public Service Commission.
On March 7, Gov. Asa Hutchinson issued a proclamation recognizing April as National Safe Digging Month in Arkansas.
“This designation acknowledges the significance of calling 811 before you dig,” according to the news release. “Along with the Governor, the Arkansas Public Service Commission’s Pipeline Safety Office, the Arkansas Oil and Gas Commission, Arkansas 811, and the Common Ground Alliance encourage excavators and homeowners to always call 811 before digging to prevent unintended consequences such as service interruption, environmental damage, personal injury, and even death. In addition to dialing 811, customers can also contact Arkansas One Call at 800-482-8998.”
The National Safe Digging Month campaign is intended to increase awareness of the national call-before-you-dig number, 811, to prevent damage to underground utility facilities.
“Dialing 811 provides a simple means to contact the Arkansas One Call Center to request utility line locations at the intended dig site. Through education about safe digging practices, excavators and homeowners can save time and money by calling 811 in advance of any digging project; waiting the required amount of time; respecting the marked lines; and digging with care around the marks,” according to the release.