UI, SCG & CNG: Don’t Forget To Call Before You Dig

ORANGE, Conn. — April 1, 2021 — Spring is here, and it’s the perfect time to get the yard in order or work on an outdoor project.

United Illuminating (UI), Southern Connecticut Gas (SCG) and Connecticut Natural Gas (CNG), subsidiaries of AVANGRID, Inc. (NYSE: AGR), remind do-it-yourselfers and contractors that the first step before any project that requires excavation or digging is to get underground utilities marked out by contacting Call Before You Dig.

April is National Safe Digging Month, and the free Call Before You Dig service can help prevent accidents that can lead to injuries and costly damage. It’s required by law before any work that involves mechanized digging, and it’s strongly recommended even for smaller projects such as installing a mailbox or fence posts.

To get started, dial 811 or fill out an e-ticket at CBYD.com at least two full business days before work begins. Representatives of area utilities will visit the property and mark out underground utilities using colored paint, flags or stakes.

“Whether you’re putting in a foundation or a fence, installing a swing set or planting a tree, taking this simple first step can help prevent accidents, keep everyone safe and avoid costly repairs,” said Frank Reynolds, President and CEO of UI, SCG and CNG.

Incidents involving third-party damage to underground natural gas and electric facilities occur each year, putting lives in danger and interrupting essential utility service. Many of these incidents can be avoided by contacting Call Before You Dig to have utilities marked out before work begins.

Follow these tips for a safer project:

• Plan to have underground utilities marked as part of all underground construction.
• Mark out the area of construction with white paint, white flags or white stakes.
• Visit CBYD.com to open a ticket to have utilities marked out, or call 811.
• Provide adequate training and supervision on a jobsite to assure that good construction practices are followed.
• Properly maintain all underground utility markings.
• Use hand tools with caution in the area of underground utilities.
• Mechanized excavation is forbidden by law within 18 inches of underground gas lines.
• Provide adequate protection and support for underground facilities.
• Use and properly install suitable backfill material around underground facilities.
• If our underground facilities are damaged or disturbed, report it to the company immediately.
  • United Illuminating: 800.722.5584
  • Southern Connecticut Gas: 800.513.8898
  • Connecticut Natural Gas: 866.924.5325
• Call 911 if there is an immediate threat to life or safety.

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