News Summary
As National Safe Digging Day approaches, Duke Energy and Piedmont Natural Gas stress the importance of safety when it comes to excavation. By calling 811 three business days prior to digging, residents and workers can prevent accidents related to underground utility lines. This initiative aims to enhance community safety and reduce service interruptions. Recent statistics highlight the significance of increasing awareness around safe digging and the legal implications of failing to do so. Community members are encouraged to educate themselves and others about the necessity of safe digging practices.
North Carolina – As National Safe Digging Day, or 811 Day, approaches on August 11, Duke Energy and Piedmont Natural Gas are urging residents and excavators to prioritize safety by practicing safe digging techniques. Both organizations recommend that individuals planning outdoor excavation projects call 811 at least three business days before commencing any digging activities. This simple step can prevent unsafe digging incidents and ensure the safety of utility workers and the community.
Calling 811 connects individuals to local utility companies, which will mark underground lines with stakes, flags, or paint to indicate where it is safe to dig. This initiative, backed by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), aims to reduce the risk of accidents and service interruptions caused by damage to underground utility lines, including those for electric, natural gas, water, sewer, phone, and cable TV services.
Recent reports show that damaging underground infrastructure is a significant issue. Duke Energy indicated that there were over 5,000 incidents of damage to their underground lines in the first half of 2025 alone. The numbers reflect an ongoing need for awareness and adherence to safety protocols among homeowners and contractors alike. Failing to contact 811 before digging can have serious legal implications, including fines and potential legal consequences.
Jointly, Duke Energy and Piedmont Natural Gas serve millions of customers across the southeastern and midwestern United States. Piedmont Natural Gas operates as a subsidiary of Duke Energy and distributes natural gas to over 1.2 million customers in the Carolinas and Tennessee. Meanwhile, Duke Energy provides electric service to approximately 8.6 million customers across North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky. Together, the companies own a substantial energy production capacity of 55,100 megawatts while transitioning to cleaner energy generation technologies.
In 2022, Duke Energy and Piedmont Natural Gas reported over 10,000 instances of damage to natural gas and electric lines within their service territories. These figures further highlight the necessity for safe digging measures to avert damage and enhance community safety. The ramifications of damaging utility lines are far-reaching, leading not only to service interruptions but also creating unsafe conditions for workers and the general public.
Community safety is critical, and practicing safe digging contributes significantly to preventing accidents and service disruptions. Proper excavation practices ensure that utilities can continue to operate efficiently, benefiting all residents and businesses. To raise awareness about safe digging practices, individuals are encouraged to educate themselves and others on the importance of contacting 811 prior to any excavation efforts.
For those planning to dig, a quick call to 811 ensures that all underground utility lines are identified and clearly marked. This simple yet essential step can save lives, prevent costly repairs, and maintain uninterrupted utility services. Residents and excavators seeking further information about safe digging practices are encouraged to visit call811.com or duke-energy.com.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Duke Energy & Piedmont Natural Gas Urge Safety
- Goldsboro Daily News: Safety on National Safe Digging Day
- Hoodline: Atmos Energy Advocates Safe Digging
- Wikipedia: Utility Safety
- Duke Energy Reminder to Call 811
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Digging
Author: STAFF HERE Chapin
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