Why 811 Damage Prevention is Essential for Property Owners
As a property owner, it’s easy to overlook the importance of damage prevention. However, the reality is that failure to take necessary precautions can result in costly repairs, downtime, and potential liabilities. One crucial aspect of damage prevention that property owners should prioritize is calling 811 before digging. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at why 811 damage prevention is essential for property owners.
What is 811?
Firstly, let’s define what 811 is and why it matters. 811 is a free service that property owners, contractors, and excavators can use to notify their local utility companies before digging. The purpose of this notification is to allow utility companies to mark the locations of any underground lines, pipes, or cables that may be in the way of intended digging. By calling 811 before digging, property owners can significantly reduce the risk of unintentional damages to any underground utility lines.
The Risks of Not Calling 811
The consequences of failing to notify utility companies before digging can be severe. Not only can it result in costly repairs and downtime, but it can also lead to potential legal liabilities. For instance, a property owner who damages a gas line while digging without notifying the utility company may face criminal charges, including fines and jail time. Additionally, failing to call 811 can lead to the disruption of essential services like electricity, gas, water, and internet.
Benefits of Calling 811
On the other hand, calling 811 before digging offers several benefits. Here are a few of them:
1. Reduced Risks of Damages and Injuries
An important benefit of calling 811 before digging is that it helps to reduce the risks of unintentional damages and injuries. Utility companies are required to respond to requests within a specific timeframe and mark the location of their underground facilities. By knowing the exact location of these facilities, property owners can take necessary precautions to avoid damaging them during excavation.
2. Saves Time and Money
Calling 811 can help property owners save time and money spent on repairs or resolving legal liabilities that may arise from damages caused by digging. The service is entirely free and takes only a few minutes to inform utility companies of intended digging activities.
3. Promotes Safety of Everyone Involved
Calling 811 before digging promotes the safety of everyone involved, including homeowners, contractors, and utility repair personnel. By preventing damages to utility lines, this service can help prevent accidents that can cause injuries or even fatalities.
How to Call 811
To call 811, property owners can dial the toll-free number 811 or visit their state’s 811 website to submit a request online. After submitting the request, utility companies will send technicians to mark the underground facilities within a specified timeframe.
Conclusion
In conclusion, calling 811 before digging is a simple yet essential step that property owners should never overlook. By doing so, property owners can promote safety, avoid liabilities, save time and money, and reduce the risks of damages and injuries associated with unintentional digging. Always remember to call 811 before digging, and promote safe excavation practices in your community.
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