UGI Utilities Emphasizes Critical Need for 811 Calls Before Digging Projects

UGI Utilities, Inc. is using National 8/11 Day as an opportunity to remind homeowners and contractors of the critical importance of calling 811 before any digging project. This simple step, required by law, ensures that underground utility lines are marked, helping to avoid potentially dangerous and costly accidents. Whether the project is as small as installing a mailbox or as large as a construction excavation, the call to 811 or a visit to call811.com is a must.

Janet Toporcer, UGI Public Safety Administrator, stresses the significance of this precautionary measure. "Calling 811 before you dig is a simple step in the process, but one that could prevent costly damage, loss of service, fines, serious injury, even death," Toporcer said. The service is free for homeowners, with contractors required to pay a small annual fee. Preparation is key when making the call, with details about the work's location, type, method, and duration needed to ensure accurate utility marking.

UGI also highlights the dangers of working near above-ground facilities, such as power lines, where contact can be fatal. For more information on safe digging practices and excavation safety, UGI directs the public to www.ugi.com/811 or call811.com. Additionally, UGI's website offers resources for scheduling safety training for excavators, further emphasizing the company's commitment to community safety.

With headquarters in Denver, Pennsylvania, UGI Utilities serves over 760,000 customers across 46 Pennsylvania counties and one county in Maryland. The company's initiative on National 8/11 Day serves as a vital reminder of the shared responsibility to prioritize safety in every digging project, no matter the scale. The implications of ignoring this requirement extend beyond individual projects, potentially affecting entire communities through service disruptions, emergency response delays, and increased public safety risks. This announcement matters because it addresses a preventable cause of infrastructure damage and personal injury that occurs frequently across residential and commercial sectors.

The importance of this reminder lies in its potential to save lives, protect property, and maintain essential utility services. By reinforcing this message annually, UGI helps cultivate a culture of safety awareness that reduces accidents and associated costs. The company's emphasis on preparation and education demonstrates how proactive measures can mitigate risks that often go overlooked during routine home improvements or large-scale construction. This public safety campaign underscores that compliance with 811 protocols is not merely a legal formality but a fundamental component of responsible property management and community welfare.