April is safe digging month and hopefully you've been seeing or hearing the message to Call Before You Dig everywhere you go. Like many other people, you may be thinking to yourself:
- what's the big deal?
- what's the worst that could happen?
- my project is just a little backyard project, I won't hit anything so I don't need to call, right? ...........WRONG!!!
You are not alone. The Common Ground Alliance recently conducted a survey and found that many homeowners have similar attitudes about safe digging practices. Download CGA Survey Results to see for yourself and see a quick fact list from the results of their study.
According to the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) excavation damage is the leading cause of serious incidents involving natural gas distribution lines. Download PHMSA Serious Incident Stats 3-5-12 to see for yourself. So, if you are thinking that it won't happen to you, remember the statistics.
For more information on excavation damage statistics and pipeline safety rules, visit PHMSA's website. And for specifics on safe digging practices and other useful information, we recommend Common Ground Alliance's website.
DIG SAFELY. CALL 811 BEFORE YOU DIG!
OR CONTACT MISSOURI ONE CALL DIRECTLY AT 1-800-DIG-RITE.
