Keeping you safe: Why Black Hills Energy urges customers to call 811 before digging 

As community affairs manager for Black Hills Energy, I have witnessed the critical importance of safety in everything we do. Our commitment to providing safe and affordable natural gas is unwavering. That’s why I urge everyone this summer to embrace a simple yet powerful practice: visiting Kansas811.com or calling 811 before you dig. Higher temperatures bring additional line hits, so we want to show why this simple step and a “Ready” mindset is essential before undertaking any excavation project. 

Ready for prevention

Calling 811 is not just a formality. It’s safe, it’s free, and it’s the law. Underground utilities, including gas lines, are hidden beneath the surface, and without proper precautions, unintentional damage can occur. By reaching out to 811, you allow experts to mark the locations of these crucial lines, helping you avoid potentially hazardous incidents. 

Ready for efficiency 

Time is valuable, and we understand the urgency of completing your project promptly. By making that simple call to 811, you enable efficient coordination among utility companies and excavators. By knowing the precise locations of gas lines, we can work together to provide a smooth and uninterrupted workflow. This collaborative effort saves time, money, and resources, benefiting both you and Dodge City. 

Ready for energy 

Nobody wants to go without their much-needed electricity and natural gas. A failure to locate underground lines could create a service disruption for your house or your neighborhood. Even worse, it could result in costly fines or create a life-threatening situation. By clicking or calling 811, you can help keep the energy flowing to Dodge City. 

Ready for peace of mind 

When you undertake any digging project, peace of mind is paramount. By taking the simple step of calling 811, you are actively ensuring the safety of yourself, your neighbors, and our gas infrastructure. Knowing that you have done everything possible to prevent accidents provides a sense of security. 

In conclusion, “Ready” encapsulates the mindset we should adopt when considering any excavation project. By clicking or calling 811 before you dig, you safeguard lives, create efficiency, and gain peace of mind. Together, let’s embrace this crucial practice and build a safer future for all. 

James P. Williams is a senior community affairs program manager with Black Hills Energy.