AEP Ohio, an American Electric Power (Nasdaq: AEP) company, wants customers to stay safe when they’re working outside. We’re marking August 11 — or 8/11 — by sharing the reminder to call 811 before doing any digging.
Calling 811 at least two days before starting to dig begins the free process for underground utility lines to be marked by an Ohio Utilities Protection Service (OUPS) technician. Striking underground lines can cause serious or fatal injuries, power outages and costly repairs. The location and depth of utility lines can vary due to erosion, uneven surfaces and previous digging projects.
“There’s a risk of striking an underground utility line even when digging just a few inches. From installing a mailbox to planting a garden, every project that involves digging warrants a call to 811,” said Ryan Knapp, Ohio Region director of safety and health for American Electric Power. “We want to keep customers and their families safe as they work on outdoor projects.”
Customers can also submit an online dig request at OUPS.org/eDig.
For more safety tips and resources, visit AEPOhio.com/Safety and OUPS.org