ST. PETERSBURG, FL (352today.com) – April is National Safe Digging Month, and Duke Energy and Piedmont Natural Gas are recognizing the importance of calling 811 before starting any digging projects. This simple step helps protect the nation’s underground utility infrastructure and helps ensure the safety of both customers and professional excavators.
“Underground utility lines can be present even just a few inches below the surface,” said Emily Henson, senior vice president and president of Duke Energy’s natural gas business. “Many digging and excavation incidents are preventable. A quick call to 811 can help you avoid costly, potentially dangerous damages.”
Call first, dig second
The national 811 “Call Before You Dig” system was created so anyone who plans to dig can make a free call to have underground utility lines clearly marked. Contractors, homeowners, business owners and anyone preparing for an excavation project should call 811 at least three business days before digging begins. Local utilities will send a crew to mark underground lines (electric, natural gas, water, sewer, phone, cable TV and others) in the area with stakes, flags or paint.
Digging into the damage data
In 2025, Duke Energy Florida reported 785 cuts to underground infrastructure lines in its service territory, amounting to more than $15 million in damages. Across all of Duke Energy’s service territories and Piedmont Natural Gas, nearly 9,800 cuts to natural gas and electric lines were reported last year.
“Duke Energy and Piedmont Natural Gas are committed to keeping our customers and communities safe,” Henson said. “Calling 811 to know what’s below before you start any digging project is fast and free, and it’s the best way to dig safely.”
For additional information about 811, visit Piedmont’s Call 811 Before You Dig webpage. To get in touch with the 811 center in your state, dial 811 or visit call811.com.
For additional information, see our story on illumination.