Springtime is one of my favorite times of the year. It’s the time when you start getting your outside spaces spruced up and ready to enjoy as the weather warms up.
As I start making my list of springtime projects I want to work on, I always try to think of the tools and items I will need. I think that we all can agree that safety isn’t always the first item you have on your project list, but it is always the most important.
If you’re planning on digging in your yard, it’s important to know what areas could cause a potential hazard. Whether you’re planting new flowers or building that outdoor kitchen, it’s important to know the safety risks associated with digging without confirming what’s under your lawn.
811 is a free service that provides you with the details of where underground utilities are located. A simple call and someone will come out and mark them with paint, flags, or stakes to help you know what areas need to be avoided when you start your digging project. Be sure to call at least three business days before you plan to start digging.
An area you should never dig near is around pad-mount transformers – those green boxes you may see in your yard. They play a big part in keeping our electrical equipment safely stored. So, it’s very important to your safety to not dig or plant anything close to these boxes to avoid contacting lines that carry electricity to your home and your neighbors’ homes.
As I start this new year’s spring project list, I’m going to keep in mind that electrical safety needs to be at the top of my list. To find out more about 811, visit sc811.org . For more electrical safety tips, visit our website .