Governor Laura Kelly has proclaimed April as Kansas Safe Digging Month, aligning with National Safe Digging Month to remind residents to call 811 before any outdoor digging project.

The Kansas Corporation Commission, Kansas 811, and utilities urge homeowners and excavators to have underground utility lines marked before digging to prevent injuries, property damage, and service outages. Utility lines vary in depth, with some just inches below the surface, making them easy to hit during projects like landscaping, fence installation, or deck construction.

Nationwide, 26% of utility damages occur because people fail to call 811. The most commonly damaged facilities are telecom (47%) and natural gas (40%).

Calling 811 or visiting www.kansas811.com at least two days before digging ensures utilities are marked. The Kansas Corporation Commission also investigates violations and offers year-round training for excavators to improve safety and compliance.