From the Lake Apopka Natural Gas District
April is National Safe Digging Month, a nationwide initiative dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of safe digging that can prevent unnecessary damage to underground utility lines. At Lake Apopka Natural Gas District (LANGD), safety is at the heart of everything we do, and we are proud to keep our communities safe and informed by spreading awareness of the importance of practicing safe digging.
Spring is here, and for many, it’s the perfect time of year for home improvement projects. Whether landscaping, installing a new fence, or breaking ground on a larger project, one crucial step should never be overlooked: calling 811 before you dig.
Why Call 811?
In the United States, an underground utility line is damaged, on average, every six minutes. Striking a buried gas, water, or electrical line can cause service disruptions, costly repairs, or serious injury. Fortunately, a simple call to 811 or an online request at Sunshine811.com can help prevent these concerns. The process is easy, free, and required by law in Florida.
Related: LANGD continues to lend a 'Helping Hand'
Safe Digging Tips
To ensure your next project is both safe and efficient, keep these key tips in mind:
- Plan Your Project: Before contacting Sunshine 811, gather specific information about your digging project, such as your address, type of project, timeline and more.
- Contact Sunshine 811: Once you have all project information ready, contact Sunshine 811 online at https://sunshines811.com or by phone at 811.
- Wait the Required Time: After you submit a ticket, member utility operators have two full business days to mark the location of underground facilities on your property.
- Confirm Utility Responses: Follow the progress of each member utility by viewing the positive response codes they use to explain your dig site.
- Confirm the Marks: Once the two full business days have passed, confirm that all member utility companies have responded to your ticket.
- Dig with Care: Now that the buried facilities on your property have been marked or cleared, it’s time to start digging!
For additional information, visit Sunshine811.com/6-steps-to-safe-digging.
A Commitment to Safety and Community
Beyond Safe Digging Month, LANGD is committed to year-round protecting our customers, contractors, and community members. As a trusted energy provider for over 65 years, we promote safety best practices while delivering safe, affordable, and reliable natural gas to homes and businesses in Apopka, Clermont, Winter Garden, and surrounding areas.
During this National Safe Digging Month and beyond, join LANGD and Sunshine 811 to prioritize safety. For more information about natural gas services, safety tips, and how LANGD can support your energy needs, visit www.langd.org or contact our team at (407) 656-2734 or EnergyChoice@langd.org.
