Whether you’re expanding your business, getting ready to erect a new sign, or simply working on a new garden, the crew at Michigan Gas Utilities is sounding the alarm over too many instances of accidental gas line accidents around West Michigan this spring.
You may not realize it, but putting a shovel into the ground without making the proper notifications is not only dangerous – it’s in violation of state law in Michigan.
Following a recent increase in underground pipes being struck and damaged, Michigan Gas Utilities has issued an urgent message today strongly suggesting that both customers and professional excavators alike always call 811 at least three working days before any digging.
Already this year there have been more than 50 incidents across the Michigan Gas Utilities service area in which underground natural gas equipment has been struck. That represents at 13-percent increase as compared to the same time period last year. In fact, in the first week of May alone, there were at least three instances in which underground pipes were hit. Both residential customers and professionals have been responsible for damaging underground equipment this year.
You may not realize it, but Michigan state law requires all residents and businesses to notify MISS DIG, the state’s one-call center for utility location services, at least three business days before they plan to dig. MISS DIG works with Michigan Gas Utilities and other utilities around the state to properly mark underground equipment at no charge. Residents and professionals still must follow state guidelines to avoid striking underground equipment after it has been marked.
Aside from violating state law, failing to notify MISS DIG prior to digging can lead to expensive repair costs, natural gas interruptions and serious injury.
To request underground equipment be marked, contact MISS DIG by dialing 811 or visit www.missdig.org. To learn more about natural gas delivery equipment and how to stay safe around underground pipes, visit www.michigangasutilities.com.
