Columbia Gas of Virginia urges safe digging ahead of National Safe Digging Month

CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- Columbia Gas of Virginia is encouraging residents to follow safe digging practices ahead of National Safe Digging Month in April.

According to a March 30 press release, officials urged homeowners to contact 811 at least three business days before starting any digging projects to identify and mark buried lines.

Projects like planting trees, installing fences, building decks or placing mailboxes can put underground natural gas pipelines and other utilities at risk if homeowners begin the digging process without proper preparation.

“Most digging accidents happen during everyday projects around the home,” said President and Chief Operating Officer of Columbia Gas of Virginia Jennifer Montague, in the release. “Whether it’s a do-it-yourself project or work done by professional contracting services, contacting 811 before you dig helps make sure a weekend project doesn’t turn into an emergency.”

Officials said the service is free and available statewide, helping prevent injuries, service disruptions and costly repairs.

According to a release, pipelines may be buried just inches beneath the ground due to erosion, landscaping changes or previous construction. This would reportedly make it essential to contact 811 for every project.

"Contacting 811 to mark utility lines is not only free, it’s the law and keeps all our neighbors safe," officials said in a release.

Requests to 811 can be placed by phone or through the Virginia811 website.

Columbia Gas of Virginia urges anyone who accidentally damages a natural gas line or smells gas to stop work immediately, leave the area and call 911 and 1‑800-544-5606 from a safe location.