The summer heat is on, and as August rolls in, it’s the perfect time to fire up your outdoor projects! But before you grab that shovel, let’s talk about the coolest day of the summer—August 11th, or 8/11, known as 811 Day. At YCNGA, we’re excited to turn up the heat on safety and raise awareness about the importance of calling SC811 before you dig.

Why 811 Day?
Every summer, countless accidents happen because people dig without knowing what’s lurking beneath the surface. Buried utility lines, like gas, water, electricity, and communication cables, can be damaged by digging, leading to service disruptions, costly repairs, and even serious injuries. 811 Day is all about reminding everyone that a simple phone call can prevent these summer sizzlers and keep our communities safe.

How Does Calling SC811 Work?
Calling 811 connects you to your local one-call center. Here’s how it works, so you can keep your summer projects hot and safe:

• Plan Ahead: Whether you’re planting a summer garden, building a deck, or setting up a new pool, make calling 811 a part of your sizzling summer plans.
• Call 811: At least three business days before you start digging, dial 811. This service is totally FREE for homeowners and contractors.
• Wait for the Marks: Utility companies will send out pros to mark the location of underground lines with flags, paint, or stakes. This usually takes a couple of days.
• Dig Safely: Once the lines are marked, go ahead with your project, being careful to dig around the marked areas.

Join Us in Celebrating 811 Day
At YCNGA, we’re fired up about promoting safety and awareness in our community. On August 11th, we encourage everyone to take a moment to understand the importance of calling 811 before any digging project. Here are some sizzling ways you can join the 811 Day celebration:

• Take our 811 Sizzlin’ Summer Survey! Put your 811 knowledge to the test for a chance to win a Napoleon Tailgate Grill or a $50 Amazon Gift Card!
• Spread the Word: Use social media to share the message of 811 Day. Use hashtags like #Call811 and #811Day to join the hot conversation.
• Educate Your Family and Friends: Make sure your loved ones know about the importance of calling 811 before digging.
• Plan a Safe Digging Project: Take on a summer project that involves digging and follow the proper steps to ensure safety.

Sizzlin’ Fun Facts about 811

• Quick and Easy: The average call to 811 takes just a few minutes, but it can save you from hours of trouble and expense.
• Free Service: Calling 811 doesn’t cost you a dime, and it’s a service provided to keep everyone safe.
• National Impact: 811 Day is recognized nationwide, highlighting the importance of safe digging practices across the country.

So, this August 11th, let’s all take a pledge to “Know What’s Below” and make the call to SC811 before any digging project. Together, we can create a safer, more informed community. Happy 811 Day!

For more information about safe digging practices and the SC811 service, visit SC811.com or check out the Safety page of our website. Stay safe, and keep your summer projects sizzling!