By Ashley M. Casey
Staff Writer
“How often do you hear there’s been an explosion and someone smelled gas?” Mary Haines, National Grid’s public awareness liaison, asked at the Jan. 24 Cicero Town Board meeting.
At the board’s invitation, Haines discussed safe excavation practices and natural gas emergencies. Here are the tips she shared:
• Call 811: Before you plant a tree, install a deck or embark on another backyard project that requires digging, make sure to steer clear of underground utility lines. You are legally required to call 811 at least two days before you begin so a representative can mark the position and depth of gas and electricity lines.
“If your job changes or if the rain washes the marks away, call again,” Haines said. “If the scope of the job changes, don’t go by the original marks. Call and get another ticket.”
• Dig carefully: Shovel areas close to the marked lines by hand. You’re more likely to hit a line using heavy machinery.
• Don’t DIY: If your shovel does strike a gas line, do not try to repair it yourself. Don’t backfill the area either. A damaged utility line can lead to injury or death.
“I’ve had people try to use duct tape — I’m dead serious,” Haines said. “Damages can be costly, but you can’t put a price on lives.”
• When in doubt, call 911: Instead of trying to fix the problem on your own, call 911. Get everyone onsite to safety and do not do anything that could cause a spark or flame, such as smoking or touching lights and electrical appliances.
• Educate yourself: Consumers can visit digsafelynewyork.com to learn more about digging without hitting utility lines. First responders and average citizens alike can become certified in electrical and natural gas safety through online training at firstresponder.ngridsafety.com.
