PPL Electric Utilities reminds customers to call 811 before digging

ALLENTOWN, Pa. (August 10, 2022) - PPL Electric Utilities is marking National 811 Day - this Thursday, August 11 - by reminding customers to call 811 prior to the start of any type of digging project.

Whether installing a deck, planting shrubs or taking on another project that involves digging, always call 811 in advance to make sure it's done safely. State law requires you to make that free 811 call if you're planning to dig with power equipment to make sure you aren't digging into power lines or other utilities.

While PPL Electric Utilities is sharing that important safety reminder for National 811 Day, it's important to make the call whenever a dig is planned. Law requires that that an 811 call be placed at least three business days prior to a dig. As an alternative to calling 811, you may also submit a request at pa1call.org.

It helps ensure that a professional locator crew visits the digging area and marks with spray paint, flags or other markers, all areas where underground utilities exist, whether they be power, water, sewer or gas lines. The locating service is free for customers.

The utility marks should stay intact for the duration of the digging project. If the marks are compromised for any reason, you should make another 811 call.

"Ensuring the safety of our customers and employees is always our priority," said Doug Haupt, public safety supervisor for PPL Electric Utilities. "Our customers have a variety of reasons to dig throughout the year and it's vitally important that they call 811 as the first step to any digging project. It's free, it's convenient, it will help keep everyone safe. Plus, it's the law."

When calling 811, make sure you have the following information:

The county and municipality where the planned dig is located.

The street name and address.

The nearest intersection/cross street to the address.

Details of the dig site, including the area of the property where excavation will occur and what kind of work is planned.

When the project is scheduled to take place.

The name of the company doing the work (if applicable).

And please mark the planned excavation area with white spray paint, chalk or flags.

For more information about safe digging, visit pa1call.org.

PPL Electric Utilities delivers safe, reliable and affordable electricity to more than 1.4 million homes and businesses in eastern and central Pennsylvania. It regularly ranks among the country's best utility companies for reliability and customer satisfaction. PPL Electric Utilities is a major employer and an active supporter of the communities it serves. It is a part of the PPL Corporation (NYSE: PPL) family of companies. Visit pplelectric.com or connect on social media via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for energy efficiency tips, bill help information, guidance on shopping for an electricity supplier, storm updates and more.

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