COLUMBUS, Ohio (Aug. 1, 2016) – As construction and home project work reaches its peak in August, Columbia Gas of Ohio is asking communities to commit to safe digging and always call 811 before they dig. Ohioans can visit www.811Pledge.com to take the 811 Pledge.

“Natural gas safety is a partnership and we want our customers to join us in keeping our communities safe,” Columbia Gas of Ohio president Dan Creekmur said.

The 811 Pledge encourages Ohioans to always call 811 at least two business days prior to taking on any digging project – whether that be to plant a tree, build a deck or install a fence. It’s the law. Utility companies will mark their lines so homeowners and contractors can dig safely.

The greatest safety risk to natural gas lines is damage by a third party. This year alone, Columbia Gas of Ohio has responded to a report of a damaged line more than 750 times. These emergency situations are a risk to customers and communities and often require evacuations and road closures.

“Calling 811 before any digging project, keeps our employees and communities safe,” Creekmur added. “A call to 811 is free, easy and it’s the law.” and expense of hitting a utility line,” said Creekmur.

To date, Executive Director of the Ohio Utilities Protection Services Roger Lipscomb; CEO of the American Red Cross, Ohio Buckeye Region, Kurt Anders; and many state legislators, mayors and municipalities have voiced support for the 811 Safe Digging Pledge.

For more information about safe digging practices, please visit columbiagasohio.com/stay-safe.