Remember to call 811 before starting dig projects
As spring weather returns and outdoor projects pick up, Black Hills Energy, Wichita, Kansas, is reminding homeowners, contractors, and weekend DIYers to contact 811before starting any digging project—large or small—during National Safe Dig Month this April.
Many people don’t realize that utilities may be buried just a few inches below the surface, putting them at risk of hitting a gas, electric, or communication line even during simple tasks like planting flowers or installing a mailbox. Black Hills Energy emphasizes that safety is in everyone’s hands — every dig, every time.
“When customers take a few moments to contact 811, it helps protect the digger, our communities, and our crews who respond to emergencies,” said Black Hills Energy Vice President of Kansas and Arkansas Operations Marc Eyre. “It’s a free, simple step that prevents outages, costly repairs, injuries, and potentially life-threatening situations.”
Plan ahead: Check state requirements and click or call 811
Black Hills Energy encourages anyone planning outdoor work to plan ahead and contact 811 before digging at least two business days in advance. Once a request is submitted, professional locators will visit the home or job site to mark underground utilities at no cost, helping the public dig safely and avoid a potentially dangerous strike.
Safety is a shared responsibility
Hitting a buried line can disrupt utility service, cause expensive damage, or even result in serious injury or death. National Safe Dig Month is an annual reminder that damage prevention starts with awareness—and continues with consistent safe digging habits.
Black Hills Energy encourages community members to:
- Contact 811 before starting any project that involves moving dirt
- Wait for marks to be completed
- Respect the marks and dig with care
- Share the message with friends, families, and neighbors
“It’s free, it’s safe, and it’s the law,” added Eyre, underscoring the company’s commitment to protecting customers, employees, and local communities.
Planning a project? Start with 811.
To learn more about safe digging, line marking procedures, and color codes, customers can visit blackhillsenergy.com/811 or explore additional resources at Kansas811.com.
