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NIPSCO says August 11 – 8/11 — serves as a natural reminder for anyone planning a digging project to call 811 to have underground utility lines marked ahead of the work. The Merrillville-based utility company encourages homeowners and professionals to make that free request two business days in advance to avoid damaging buried utility lines. From installing a fence or mailbox, to building a deck, planting a tree or laying a patio, NIPSCO says every digging project, no matter how large or small, warrants contacting 811. So far this year, NIPSCO says it has experienced more than 140 damages to its gas lines due to people failing to contact 811. Visit Indiana811.org or NIPSCO.com/811 for more information about 811 and safe digging practices.
Digger Dog is Making His Debut
In conjunction with the 8/11 date this year, NIPSCO is adopting a safety mascot named Digger Dog. “Digger is ready to help everyone in the community learn why contacting 811 before digging is the smart thing to do. Throughout the year, he will also share other safety messages including how to identify natural gas and how to report a possible natural gas leak,” the news release said. Fittingly, 8/11 Day is Digger’s birthday, NIPSCO said, and the utility will celebrate 8/11 Day with Digger and the community annually starting this year. In addition to Digger’s debut, NIPSCO will be hosting several events to celebrate and bring awareness to 8/11 Day; including partnering with Indiana 811 for fun family days at the Fort Wayne Tin Caps and the South Bend Cubs.
NIPSCO also said they would like to remind anyone who thinks they may have damaged an underground pipeline or suspects a natural gas leak, even if they are not a NIPSCO customer, to leave the area immediately and call 911 and NIPSCO at 1-800-464-7726. A natural gas leak can be detected by a distinct sulfur-like odor, similar to rotten eggs, even if it’s faint or momentary; an unusual hissing or roaring sound coming from the ground or appliance; or, bubbling water and discolored plants or grass surrounding a pipeline, NIPSCO said.
