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April is National Safe Digging month and at PSE&G, we want to remind our customers that any time you’re planning a project such as gardening, planting a tree or installing a fence, pool or even a mailbox – no matter how shallow – we want you to be safe by calling 811 before you dig.
Learn how to keep yourself and your family safe around natural gas – visit: pseg.com/GasSafety.
Call Before You Dig Tips
When you call 811 before planting a tree or building a new deck, you’re automatically connected to the One Call Center. They will schedule a representative from each utility to “mark out” the location of underground lines within three business days. The lines are pinpointed by paint on the street or small flags/paint on the lawn. This service is free and critical to avoiding damage.
Every six minutes, an underground pipeline is accidentally damaged nationwide. Here’s what you can do to help:
CALL 811 at least three full business days before putting a shovel to the dirt. Respect the marks, and dig around them (not on them). Always carefully hand dig and locate the facilities within 2 feet of marked lines.
CHECK to see if your contractor has called 811. Don’t allow work to begin if the lines aren’t marked, and don’t assume they have called.
REMEMBER that both large and small projects require a call – whether you’re installing a mailbox, planting a new vegetable garden or putting in a pool.
REPORT a damaged gas line immediately by calling 911 and then PSE&G at 1-800-880-7734. Leave the area, move 350 feet away and make sure everyone is safe.
Calling 811 before you dig only takes a few minutes. Don’t put yourselves or others at risk. Always make the 811 call and put safety first!
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