NYSEG, RG&E Urge Customers to Call 811 Before Digging

April marks National Safe Digging Month; residents and contractors reminded to protect underground utilities

New York State Electric & Gas (NYSEG) and Rochester Gas and Electric (RG&E) are reminding customers that safety should always come first when planning outdoor projects involving excavation or digging. April is National Safe Digging Month, and both companies are urging homeowners and contractors to contact 811 before beginning any work to ensure underground utilities are properly marked and avoid potential hazards.

“Remember to plan ahead with your outdoor projects this year. First and foremost, call 811 before you dig or log onto UDIGNY.org to have public utilities marked out,” said Jason Marsh, supervisor of Damage Prevention for NYSEG and RG&E. “Everyone needs to do their part to keep our communities safe, and that starts with a simple, fast, and free service to have buried utilities marked.”

Residents and contractors are also encouraged to learn about Code 753, a New York State regulation that outlines requirements for protecting underground facilities. A location request with UDig NY should be made at least two working days before starting any digging project.

Whether it's installing a fence, planting a tree, or beginning a larger construction project, customers should speak with their contractors about digging safety and include utility marking in the project planning process. Unmarked digging can pose serious risks to property, personal safety, and utility service.

Dig Safe tips for a safer project:

Plan to have underground utilities marked before any digging.
Outline the proposed work area with white paint.
Contact UDig NY by calling 811 or visiting UDigNY.org.
Confirm that all utilities listed on the UDig NY ticket have been marked or cleared.
Understand that private utilities, such as electric, water, sewer, storm water, cable, and telecommunications lines, are the homeowner’s responsibility to locate.
Maintain visibility of all utility markings during your project.
Use hand tools when digging near marked utilities.
Support and protect exposed utilities during work.
If utility lines are damaged or disturbed, call 911 immediately and contact NYSEG or RG&E.