Underground Danger

The Risk Beneath Your Feet

Yellowstone Valley Electric Cooperative 

It’s tempting to grab a shovel and get to work when you're tackling outdoor projects — whether you are planting trees, building a fence, or installing a gate. But before you dig, there's one simple step that could prevent injury, outages or worse: calling 811. 

What Is 811?

811 is the national “Call Before You Dig” number. It connects you to your local utility notification center, which will arrange for utility companies, like your electric cooperative to mark the location of underground lines on your property, free of charge. 

Whether it's electrical, gas, water, sewer, or internet lines, they all run underground, often just inches below the surface.

What Could Go Wrong?

Accidentally hitting an underground power line isn’t just a nuisance, it can be dangerous and expensive. Striking a buried electric cable could:

• Cause serious injury or death
• Knock out power to your home or your neighbors
• Damage co-op equipment, resulting in costly repairs
• Delay your project while emergency crews respond

How It Works. 

Calling 811 is simple:

1. Call or visit www.call811.com at least 2–3 business days before you plan to dig.

2. Your local utility locators will mark underground lines on your property using flags or paint.

3. You’ll receive confirmation when it’s safe to proceed.

Even small projects matter — if you’re using a post hole digger or even a hand shovel, 811 still applies.

Why It Matters 

Utility companies like Yellowstone Valley Electric Cooperative, work hard to maintain safe, reliable power. That includes protecting the lines you don’t see and the ones buried beneath your property. By calling 811, you’re helping keep utility crews, the electric system, and your neighbors safe. So, before you dig this season, make the call that makes all the difference. It’s free, it’s easy, and it could save a life.

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