Call before you dig!  The law protects us all!

Planning on doing some digging? 

One of the most potentially hazardous situations in residential area, industrial plants and construction sites is accidental contact with underground electric power lines, natural gas lines, communication lines, and other utility services.  The Georgia Utility Facility Protection Act (GUFPA) was established to protect the underground utility infrastructure of Georgia. The “Call Before You Dig” law mandates that, before beginning any mechanized digging or excavation work, you must contact Georgia 811 by calling 811 or 1-800-282-7411 at least 48 hours but no more than 10 working days in advance to have utility lines marked.  One easy phone call to 8-1-1 or contact UPC (Utility Protection Center) at the following Internet address http://www.gaupc.com  starts the process to get your underground utility lines marked for free.

Although it is not required by Georgia law to notify the Georgia 811 if a smaller, non-mechanized digging project is planned, we encourage residents to do so to ensure their personal safety and the safety of those around them. These projects can include installing a fence, deck; swing set or mail box; planting trees or landscaping.  Even if your project is small, it is always best to call.

Doing some work overhead?

What some people may not know is that the Utilities Protection Center does more than protect people from hitting underground lines when they dig; it also serves to prevent accidents around over head power lines as well.  The Georgia “High-voltage Safety Act “ requires, by law, that anyone doing work within 10 feet of overhead high-voltage lines (750 volts and above)  must notify the UPC at least 72 hours in advance, excluding weekends and holidays, to enable the owner or operator of the high-voltage lines to determine the precise tract or parcel of land involved. Notification allows the owner or operator of the power lines to take appropriate safety measures to prevent injury to persons and property and interruptions of utility services resulting from accidental or inadvertent contact with high-voltage electric lines.

So please, Be Safe and call 8-1-1.  This call can keep you from damaging lines, breaking the law and putting you or someone else in danger.