INDIANAPOLIS – Spring is here and warmer temperatures mean more people will be working in their yards. Even simple jobs like planting a tree or putting in a fence post can be dangerous and costly if an underground utility line is damaged.
Residents should remember that natural gas pipelines, water lines, electric power lines, communications lines, and other utility services could be within a few feet of the surface and are not always located near the street. Homeowners are required by law to call Indiana 811 or (800) 382-5544 at least two working days before digging on their property. This gives utility companies time to locate and mark all underground lines and pipes. The service is free and easy:
• Know your township.
• Get your ticket number from the operator.
• Wait 48 hours before digging.
• Use care and hand dig within two feet of the buried utility line.
• For more information, visit www.indiana811.org
In the event of a ruptured gas line at a home or business, residents should do the following:
• Leave the area immediately.
• Do not light matches, touch electrical switches or use the telephone. Do not start vehicles that are located near the gas leak.
• Once away from the area of the leak, call 911 and Citizens Gas at (317) 924-3311.
• Remain in the safe area until emergency personnel arrive.
In the event of a damaged, nicked, gouged or scraped gas line or cut tracer wire at a home or business, residents should do the following:
• Report the damage to Citizens Gas at (317) 924-3311.
• Remain on site to point out the damage to Citizens Gas personnel upon their arrival.
