As warmer weather fuels a surge in outdoor projects, utilities across New York are warning that skipping one simple step before digging can lead to dangerous — and costly — consequences.
New York State Electric & Gas and Rochester Gas and Electric are urging homeowners and contractors to contact UDig NY before starting any excavation work, part of a statewide push tied to National Safe Digging Month.
Officials say even routine projects like installing a fence, planting trees or landscaping can strike underground utility lines if locations aren’t properly marked ahead of time. That can trigger power outages, gas leaks, or serious injuries.
Customers are advised to submit a location request at least two business days before digging, either online or by calling 811. Once a request is filed, utility operators are dispatched to mark the approximate locations of underground lines in the designated work area.
Utility leaders say the process is quick, but the stakes are high if it’s ignored. Damaging buried infrastructure can disrupt service for entire neighborhoods and create hazardous conditions that put both workers and the public at risk.
The warning comes as construction activity ramps up across the Finger Lakes and Central New York, where a mix of residential projects and larger development continues to increase demand on aging infrastructure.
Officials emphasized that taking a few minutes to request utility markings is one of the simplest ways to prevent avoidable accidents — and protect critical systems communities rely on every day.
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