Black Hills Energy reminds Lincoln homeowners to stay safe while digging

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Black Hills Energy is reminding Lincoln homeowners to prioritize safety before breaking ground on outdoor projects.

April is National Safe Digging Month, and Black Hills Energy Communications Director Brandy Johnson says it’s a great time to remember to plan ahead.

Homeowners must call 811 two business days before planning a dig.  Crews will then go to the home to mark the approximate location of buried utility lines with color-coded paint.

“For Black Hills Energy, ours are yellow to indicate an underground natural gas line,” Johnson said. “You’re going to see blue, orange for telecommunications and red, as well as other colors just to indicate what’s below.”

Those who do not comply with “Call Before You Dig” laws can face civil penalties or the costs of expensive repairs, according to Black Hills Energy.

“It’s free, it’s easy and it’s the law,” Johnson said. “Call us, call 811, everyone will come out. Indicate whether they’ve got utilities underground, show you where those are at and then you can do your work.”

More information can be found at www.ne1call.com.