Kansans encouraged to dig safely on 811 Day (Aug. 11) as growth continues

811 Day, Aug. 11, is a national reminder to follow safe digging practices and prevent damage to underground facilities. As many communities in Kansas are experiencing growth with new homes, businesses and commercial developments, it is essential that safe digging practices continue.

“Building homes and businesses is critical to expanding economic growth, so those helping make that happen, like builders and excavators, can play a key role by using the free 811 service,” said Sean Postlethwait, Kansas Gas Service vice president of Operations. “Contacting 811 before digging and following the rules afterward is the best way to keep everyone safe, service reliable and growth going.”

According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), the Kansas economy grew by 7.4% in the 2nd Quarter of 2023, the second-fastest rate in the nation, and by 9.7% in the 3rd quarter of 2023 – the fastest rate in the nation for that time period. With this growth comes a need for new housing and facilities, meaning more digging projects.

How 811 Works

Contacting 811 connects you to the local one-call center which notifies utility companies of your digging plans. These utilities may include natural gas, electric, water, sewer, cable and telecommunications. Professional locators are then sent to the requested digging site to mark the approximate locations of underground lines using flags, spray paint or both. It’s a free service that only takes a few minutes and helps keep your community safe.

Kansas Gas Service encourages everyone to put safety first when undertaking any digging project — no matter the scale.

For a safer digging experience, here are 5 helpful tips to follow:

1. Contact 811. Call 811 or submit an online request at Kansas811.com at least two full working days before you start your digging project. (If you hire a contractor, make sure they have contacted 811.)

2. Verify the Marks Are Fresh and Complete. Verify that all utilities have marked their facilities and wait for confirmation that the markings are complete by reviewing your ticket with 811. Ensure the markings are not from a previous project.

3. Respect the Tolerance Zone. The tolerance zone is the area located 24 inches on either side of the underground facility. You should exercise reasonable care using hand or soft digging techniques to avoid any contact or damage to the facility

4. Only Dig Within the Project Area. By contacting 811, you can help make sure the project area is defined and that digging occurs only within that area.

5. Smell Gas, Act Fast! If you smell natural gas while digging or damage a natural gas line, leave the area immediately then call 911, 811 and us at 888-482-4950.

To learn more about safe digging, visit beadigherokansas.com