Monday, April 13, 2015

Call 8-1-1 Before Digging in Your Yard

Edina, Minn., April 8, 2015 – Outdoor temperatures are climbing and the snow has melted, which means it won’t be long before people start getting their lawns ready for spring projects. Although it may seem easiest to start digging up the yard right away, the Edina Fire Department reminds residents that calling 8-1-1 first is the best way to ensure projects go smoothly.

Homeowners sometimes make risky assumptions about whether or not they should get their utility lines marked, but every digging job requires a call – even small projects like planting trees and shrubs. Last year, 25 gas lines and electrical lines were hit during excavations in Edina. 

Underground facilities, including natural gas and electric lines, can run inches away from the surface and be easily damaged by tools used to dig in a yard. Because of this hazard, State law requires anyone excavating to call two days before beginning a project so a specialist contractor can mark the approximate location of potential underground facilities, free of charge.

Digging without knowing the location of underground utilities increases the likelihood of unintentional damage, which can cause serious injuries, service disruptions and repair costs. Anyone who damages utilities through illegal digging will be held financially liable for repairs and could be held civilly liable for injuries. 

“It is critical to call before digging. Striking a gas line or other utility could be very dangerous and even deadly,” said Paramedic/Firefighter Joshua Link.

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The City of Edina
4801 W. 50th St., Edina, MN 55424
mail@EdinaMN.gov 952-927-8861

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