Mushroom, our 2024 Doggone it! photo contest winner, reminds customers to call 811 before starting any outdoor digging projects.
Mushroom takes digging seriously and so do we! He won our “Doggone it! Call 811 before you dig” contest. Peoples Gas customers submitted photos of their dogs digging in their yards, and the public voted to determine our safety “ambassadog.”
Look for Mushroom on safe digging promotional and advertising materials throughout the year.
In spring and summer, many homeowners begin home improvement projects that require digging,
such as landscaping or installing a mailbox, deck or fence. Before you dig, call 811
at least 48 hours in advance. A service technician will come to your home at no
charge to mark the buried utilities on your property so you or your contractor
does not accidentally cut or damage them. It's one phone call that can save time,
money and your life. It's also the law.
Digging without knowing the approximate location of underground utilities can result in
serious injuries, service disruptions and costly repairs when natural gas, electric,
communications, water and sewer lines are damaged. Calling 811 before any digging
project saves you from the unnecessary risk that can lead to interrupted service,
leaks and even a fire or explosion that can put lives in danger.
For Chicago locations: Call 811 Chicago at 811 or fill out a request online.
For locations outside the city: Call JULIE at 811 or 800-892-0123, or fill out a request online.
Above-ground markers
You'll know what's below by the different flags, stakes or paint. Identify these marks before you excavate.
- Electric
- Gas, oil or petroleum
- Communications
- Potable water
- Reclaimed water, irrigation
- Sewer
- Proposed excavation
- Temporary survey
