NYSEG and RG&E remind customers to call 811 before you dig

Proper marking prevents damage and injury

With the warmer weather approaching, NYSEG and RG&E, AVANGRID companies, remind contractors and homeowners to have underground utilities marked before starting any excavation project. This is essential to protect themselves and others from injury and to prevent damage to underground electric lines and gas pipes. Remember to contact Dig Safely New York by calling 811 at least two and not more than 10 full working days before the start of any excavation project.

Every year, there are dozens of incidents involving third-party damage to NYSEG and RG&E underground natural gas and electric facilities. These incidents can put people’s lives in danger and interrupt essential utility service.

“Contractors are required by law to call Dig Safely New York before digging, and we strongly encourage do-it-yourselfers to call as well,” said Greg George, vice president of gas engineering, NYSEG and RG&E. “Whether you’re putting in a foundation or building a deck, making this simple call will help keep everyone safe.”

Dig Safely New York is free and available to receive calls 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

The companies said to follow these tips for a safer project:

• Plan to have underground utilities marked as part of all underground construction
• Mark out the area of construction
• Call Dig Safely New York, a free and easy service at 811 or 1-800-962-7962
• Provide adequate training and supervision on a jobsite to assure that good construction practices are followed
• Properly maintain all underground utility markings
• Hand dig in the area of underground facilities
• Provide adequate protection and support for underground facilities
• If underground facilities are damaged or disturbed, notify RG&E at 1-800-743-1702 for natural gas or 1-800-743-1701 for electricity. NYSEG can be notified by calling 1-800-572-1121 for a natural gas emergency and 1-800-572-1131 for an electric emergency. Someone from the companies will come right away to ensure the site is safe and make repairs if required.
• Use and properly install suitable backfill material around underground facilities

For more information, visit Dig Safely New York at digsafelynewyork.com.