COLUMBUS, Ohio – This Aug. 11, Columbia Gas of Ohio urges homeowners and contractors to contact 811 at least two business days before beginning any digging project. This free and simple service helps prevent damage to underground utility lines and promotes community safety.
“As the end of summer approaches, we see many homeowners rushing to complete the outdoor projects that got away from them over the last few months. That’s why this is the perfect time to remind Ohioans how to dig safely around buried utility lines,” said Columbia Gas of Ohio President and Chief Operating Officer Bob Heidorn. “Accidentally striking a single utility line can lead to costly repairs, outages and fines. Calling 811 prior to breaking ground is a free and easy way to help keep you safe and your project on track.”
By calling 811 or visiting OUPS.org, residents are connected to the state system which coordinates with local utilities to mark underground lines using color-coded flags or spray paint. These markings help identify the location and type of utility lines, such as gas, electricity, water, or communications, so that digging can be done safely.
Examples of projects needing a locate request include installing fences or mailboxes, planting trees or shrubs, and constructing patios or decks. Even shallow garden digging can be dangerous because utility line depths may differ due to erosion, prior work, or uneven ground. While homeowners or professionals may think they know where underground utilities are, the only dependable way to confirm is by contacting 811.
“Safety is at the heart of everything we do,” added Heidorn. “We’re proud to support 811 Day and reinforce our commitment to protecting our customers, employees, and communities.”
For more information about safe digging practices, visit OUPS.org or ColumbiaGasOhio.com.
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About Columbia Gas of Ohio
Columbia Gas of Ohio delivers clean, dependable and efficient natural gas to approximately 1.5 million customers across the state. With headquarters in Columbus, it is the largest natural gas utility in Ohio. Columbia Gas of Ohio is one of six regulated utility companies of NiSource (NYSE: NI), one of the largest fully-regulated utility companies in the United States. NiSource employees are focused on our mission to deliver safe, reliable energy that drives value to our customers, and guided by our vision to be an innovative and trusted energy partner. More information about Columbia Gas of Ohio and NiSource, including its goal of achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions from its operations by 2040, is available at www.ColumbiaGasOhio.com and www.NiSource.com.
