As summer kicks off, many of us will start to plan gatherings with friends and family – and we’ll get started on those long-neglected yards, too. But before all that begins, there’s an important call (or click) you’ll need to make. Beneath the ground are thousands of miles of pipelines, wires, and cables that Colorado Springs Utilities (Springs Utilities) uses to provide customers with critical services, including electricity, natural gas, water, and wastewater.
Summer Safety: 811 Before You Dig
When those lines are damaged, Springs Utilities and customers could face large utility outages, expensive repairs, injury or even death. That’s why customers must call or click 811 before they dig. Call 8-1-1 or visit Colorado811.org at least three business days before digging. Colorado 811 will notify affected utility owners of a customer’s intent to dig.
Utility owners have two full business days, not including the day of the request, to respond to a request for locates. Professional locators will respond within that time to mark the location of underground utilities in the dig area with flags, paint or both.
Always dig with care. Utility lines are within 18 inches on either side of the marked utility. Remember, the marks do not indicate depth. Locate tickets are valid for 30 days or as long as marks are visible within that 30-day period.
- If an underground line is damaged:
- Stop work immediately: Don’t try to shut off service or repair, clamp or bury the damaged line.
- Warn those around you and leave the area if you know or suspect you’ve hit a natural gas line.
- If an injury has occurred, call 911.
- If you damage a natural gas line and gas is blowing you must call 911.
- Call Springs Utilities at (719) 448-4800 to inform of the damage so the proper crew can be dispatched to make repairs.
- Call 811 to report the damage to Colorado One Call with the original locate ticket request number.
- Wait for crews to make repairs.
Summer Safety: Be Cautious Around Equipment
Remember to exercise caution around electrical equipment as well!
Electricity can travel through water and you to deliver a painful and sometimes deadly shock. It is always looking for a way to the ground. And it’s all around us! We use electricity to power technology like our cell phones, computers, lights, hair dryers, refrigerators and air conditioners. So, play it safe:
- Never put your finger (or anything that doesn’t belong) in an outlet.
- Use electrical appliances away from water.
- Make sure all electric cords are in good condition.
- Stay away from all electrical equipment: meters, transformers, poles, support wires and substations. If you see a downed power line, call 911.
- When thunder roars, go indoors!
Summer Safety: Activity Sheets for Kids
Looking for learning opportunities for your kids this summer? Activities and worksheets are terrific tools to reinforce safety while having fun. Check out Springs Utilities’ favorites!
