SALT LAKE CITY — Rocky Mountain Power is reminding customers and the public to contact underground utility location services by dialing 811 prior to starting activities that require digging.
A shovel hitting an underground power line can be as dangerous as coming in contact with an overhead power line.
Each state has this locating service that is accessed by calling 811 at least 48 hours before beginning any digging project. Workers will locate all underground utility lines and mark them free of charge. Red markings are electric power; yellow: gas, oil and petroleum; orange: cable TV and communications; blue: water; green: sewer and storm water.
For a direct number to a local underground utility locating service, call Rocky Mountain Power toll free at 888-221-7070.
A minimum clearance of 24 inches from the marked line is required when using any power-operated or earth-moving equipment. If it is necessary to dig within the 24-inch area, only use hand tools with extreme caution to avoid contact with the utility lines.
Due to soil erosion over time and changes in landscaping, utility lines once buried several feet underground could now be just inches below the surface.
Whether marked or unmarked, if an underground power line is damaged during digging, immediately call 911 if a threat to human life exists and keep everyone away from the area until help arrives. In addition, call Rocky Mountain Power so the line can be repaired. The toll-free number to report the damage is 877-508-5088.