In observance of National Safe Digging Month in April, Common Ground Alliance announced results from a recent national survey.

The survey found that 27.2 million Americans planning digging projects in the next year will not contact 811, putting themselves and their communities at risk of utility service disruptions, costly fines and repairs and even serious injury or death.

"As we work to unleash American energy, the Department of Transportation will continue to educate the public on free resources they can use to enhance safety," said U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy. "Whether you're a homeowner planting a garden or a contractor breaking ground on a major project, we encourage you to contact 811 prior to any excavation activity to ensure a safe dig every time."

Digging without knowing the location of underground utilities can lead to serious injuries, service outages and expensive repairs. Accidentally striking gas, electric, communications, water or sewer lines can cause significant disruptions to homes and businesses. A free 811 request is available by calling 811 or submitting a ticket online. Your dig request ensures that underground utility lines are properly marked before digging, preventing accidents and keeping communities safe.

"Our survey found that 46 percent of Americans don't plan to notify 811 before digging, with most believing their project is too shallow to merit an 811 request," said CGA President and CEO Sarah K. Magruder Lyle. "This misconception puts homeowners and their neighbors at risk of injury and utility service interruptions. The reality is that utility lines can be buried just inches below the surface, which is why everyone must contact 811 before every digging project — whether it's installing a patio or major construction."

Even common do-it-yourself projects — such as planting a garden, installing a mailbox or setting up a fence — can pose risks, as the depth of buried utilities can vary.

To keep homeowners, families and communities safe, a few days before breaking ground, make a free request to have the approximate location of underground lines marked with flags or paint by calling 811 or visiting www.811beforeyoudig.com. This National Safe Digging Month and all year long, take the following steps when planning a digging project:

• Always contact 811 a few days before digging, regardless of the depth or familiarity with the property;

• Plan ahead. Make a free 811 request on Monday or Tuesday for work planned for an upcoming weekend, providing ample time for the approximate location of lines to be marked;

• Confirm that all lines have been marked;

• Consider moving the location of the project if it is near utility line markings; and

• If a contractor has been hired, confirm that the contractor has contacted 811. Don't allow work to begin if the lines aren't marked.

Everyone who contacts 811 a few days before digging is connected to a local 811 center that collects the information and communicates it to local utility companies. Professional locators will then visit the dig site to mark the approximate location of underground utility lines with spray paint, flags or both. Once a site has been accurately marked, it is safe to begin digging around the marked areas.