NYSEG, wants to remind customers and contractors that having underground utilities marked before digging is essential to protect yourself and others from injury and to prevent damage to underground utility lines. Remember to contact Dig Safely New York at least two and not more than 10 full working days before you start any excavation project.

Every year, there are dozens of incidents involving third-party damage to NYSEG’s underground natural gas and electric facilities. These incidents can put people’s lives in danger and interrupt essential utility service.

“Contractors are required by law to call Dig Safely New York before digging, and we strongly encourage do-it-yourselfers to call as well,” said Michael Eastman, Gas Assets Vice President of NYSEG and RG&E. “Whether you’re putting in a foundation or just putting up a fence, making this simple call will help keep everyone safe.”

Follow these tips for a safer, faster project:

· Plan for having underground utilities marked as part of all underground construction

· Mark out the area of construction

· Call Dig Safely New York, a free and easy service at 811 or 1.800.962.7962

· Provide adequate training and supervision on a jobsite to assure that good construction practices are followed

· Properly maintain all underground utility markings

· Hand dig in the area of underground facilities

· Provide adequate protection and support for underground facilities

· Use and properly install suitable backfill material around underground facilities

· If our underground facilities are damaged or disturbed, notify NYSEG at 800.572.1121 for natural gas or 800.572.1131 for electricity. We'll come right away to ensure the site is safe and make repairs if required

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