JCP&L reminds customers to call 811 before digging during National Safe Digging Month
NEW JERSEY – Spring is a popular time to get started on outdoor projects, including those that require digging. April is National Safe Digging Month, and Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L) is reminding customers of the importance of calling 811 before starting any digging project—big or small.
Creating a new garden or installing a mailbox might seem like simple tasks; however, utility lines could be buried just below the surface. Having lines marked before starting any digging project can help prevent potential injury, property damage, and utility disruptions.
How It Works
If you’re planning a digging project, you’ll need to contact your local 811 agency—typically at least two to three full business days in advance (excluding holidays). To submit your request, you’ll provide the street address, the specific locations on the property where digging will take place, the type of work being done, the method of excavation, and any other relevant details to help ensure utility lines are properly marked. If you are hiring a contractor or excavator, they should be the one to make this request.
Once your request is submitted, your state’s 811 center will notify utility operators, who will come out to locate and mark their buried utility lines with paint or flags. This is a free service. You can learn which utilities correspond to each flag color here.
Explore this interactive map to check lead times in your area, request line marking, or learn more about safe digging practices.
