April is National Safe Digging Month, and it’s a month dedicated to ensuring the public is aware of the dangers of digging without having the area properly marked. Before any digging commences in an area, people are supposed to call 811 so that member utilities such as electric, gas, and cable companies can come out and mark where their lines run.

Unfortunately, not everyone does this because every six minutes an underground utility is damaged by someone who decided to dig without calling 811. This not only causes expensive repairs, which the person digging is usually responsible for covering, but can also result in injury or death to them.

The History of National Safe Digging Month

This month began in 2008 to encourage the general public to call 811 before they dig. This was in response to the frequent incidents of people digging where they shouldn’t. When this month was created, members of the Common Ground Alliance were asked to promote the day to the general public to reach as many people as possible. That has been the case ever since.

Busting the Myths About Safe Digging

It appears that there are some myths surrounding safe digging that prevent some people from being as safe as possible during their work projects. That’s why we’ve decided to go ahead and bust some of the myths surrounding safe digging.

Myth: 811 is Only for Digging

Some people think they only need to call 811 if they’re planning on digging. Although people should call this number when they’re getting ready to dig, that’s not the only occasion they should do it. They should also make sure to call when they’re doing any dirt-moving activities at all.

Myth: It’s Not Required by Law, So I Shouldn’t Call 811

Everyone should call 811 before they move dirt or dig, even if it’s not required where they live. It not only prevents them from causing potentially hundreds of thousands or millions of dollars in damage but also keeps them safe as well.

Observing National Safe Digging Month

This is not a month that a person would celebrate unless, of course, they’re intending on doing some digging. If that’s the case, then they should certainly make sure to call 811 or visit their state’s 811 website several days before digging to give member utilities an opportunity to mark where their lines lie.

People are also encouraged to use the hashtag #SafeDiggingMonth to spread the word about this month to everyone who needs to see it. After all, safe digging not only saves everyone money but also keeps everyone safe.