April is National Safe Digging Month, which serves as a reminder that digging without locating utility lines causes injuries, loss of life, and property damage every year. This damage can also lead to outages and fines.
Underground utility lines that can include electric, natural gas, water and cable or fiber can be accidentally encountered by property owners if these lines are not located in advance.
Xcel Energy is advising customers who are eager to start their spring planting or landscaping to always call 8-1-1 to have underground utility lines marked free of charge before starting any digging projects.
In Minnesota, homeowners and contractors should call 8-1-1, or submit an online request at; www.gopherstateonecall.org at least two business days in advance of starting a project.
