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By Liam Verster

Safe Digging Practices

FortisBC reminds people to be safe with their digging projects

Oct 7, 2024 | 11:57 AM

People are urged to be safe as they wrap up their summer digging projects and begin their fall ones.

The gas utility provider said this time of year sees an uptick in digging and extracting projects as the cold weather is about to set in, and reminds contractors and residents to contact B.C. 1 Call before breaking ground to avoid damaging underground utility lines.

FortisBC and B.C. 1 Call reported a four per cent increase in incidents between January and July of 2024 compared to the same period the year before, with a notable eight per cent increase between August and July a construction activities ramped up.

The utility provider asked that people take steps to avoid these incidents heading into the fall.

“We often see an increase in damage incidents to underground gas lines towards the end of summer and into the fall as projects wrap up,” Jimmy Yip, FortisBC’s damage prevention manager, said.

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Safe Digging Practices

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“It’s encouraging to see the increase in BC 1 Call locate ticket requests, and it’s crucial to follow the safety measures they provide. By adhering to safe digging practices, such as hand digging near marked lines, individuals can help avoid damaging underground utility lines, and ensure the safety of themselves and others.”

FortisBC noted that landscaping and construction remain the primary cause of damages and incidents, and said people can take steps to prevent these incidents by calling B,C 1 Call at 1-800-474-6886 or visit their website to request location information before digging; plan where it’s safe to dig based on the information provided; and, when digging near a line, dig by hand at first to expose the gas line.

FortisBC has additional safe digging tips on its website.