PLAINFIELD, Ind. — In recognition of National Safe Digging Month, Duke Energy is reminding customers and professional excavators to call 811 before digging to protect the nation’s underground utility infrastructure.
“Every April, many homeowners and construction crews begin projects that involve digging, and with that, we see an increase in emergency calls for cut utility lines,” said Stan Pinegar, president of Duke Energy Indiana. “In addition to potential danger and expense of damaged utilities, many incidents lead to road closures and evacuations, and they can tie up police, fire, and other emergency resources.”
The National 811 “Call Before You Dig” system was created so anyone who plans to dig can make a free call to have underground utility lines marked. Contractors, homeowners, business owners, and anyone preparing for an excavation project should call 811 at least three business days before digging begins.
In 2023, Duke Energy reported 440 cuts to its underground electric lines in Indiana.
For additional information about 811, visit Call 811 Before You Dig. To contact the 811 center, dial 811 or visit call811.com.
