Before You Break Ground, Put Safety First

August is a great time to tackle outdoor projects like planting trees, installing a fence, replacing a mailbox, or refreshing your landscaping. Before you start digging, however, take a few minutes to look both below and above ground for potential utility hazards.

Even small projects can damage underground utility lines if you don’t know where they’re located. Striking an electric, gas, water, or communications line can cause injuries, power outages, costly repairs, and service disruptions for your neighborhood.

That’s why Indiana law requires homeowners and contractors to contact Indiana 811 at least two full working days before digging (excluding weekends and holidays). The service is free, and utility companies will mark the approximate location of public underground utility lines with paint or flags so you can dig safely.

Keep in mind that Indiana 811 marks public utility lines leading to your meter. Private lines serving landscape lighting, irrigation systems, detached garages, or other outdoor features typically are not marked and may require a private utility locator.

Safety doesn’t stop at ground level. Before beginning any outdoor project, look up and be aware of overhead power lines. Ladders, long-handled tools, tree limbs, and building materials can all come dangerously close to energized lines. If trees are growing near power lines, never attempt to trim them yourself. Contact Southeastern Indiana REMC for assistance.

When adding new landscaping, think ahead. Trees planted too close to power lines can create safety hazards as they mature and are a leading cause of power outages during storms and high winds. Choosing the right planting location today can help prevent problems for years to come.

It’s also important to keep pad-mounted transformers and other electrical equipment accessible. Avoid planting shrubs, installing fences, or placing decorative landscaping around utility equipment. Maintaining a clear working space allows utility crews to perform maintenance safely and restore service more quickly during outages.

A little planning before your project begins can save time, money, and frustration later. By contacting Indiana 811 before digging, staying aware of overhead power lines, and keeping utility equipment accessible, you’ll help protect your family, your property, and the reliable electric service your community depends on.