April is National Safe Digging Month

Ferrellgas propane tank with clouds in the background

Ferrellgas is focused on the safety of our customers, our employee-owners, and the communities that we serve, and that’s why we’re reminding our customers that April is National Safe Digging Month. We encourage you to call 811 before you do any projects in your yard this spring. Why? Utility lines, including propane lines, are often buried underground. You don’t want to risk cutting into one while tackling your latest project outside.

Finding out where your utility lines run is easy. As we mentioned, you can simply call 811. Or you can take a look at this state-by-state map which will help you understand the regulations that are in place where you live. Once you contact your local 811 representative, someone will be out to clearly mark where your utility lines run. They usually use small flags or spray paint to highlight the area. Once you can clearly see where your lines are located, you’ll be able to dig safely.

Keep in mind that the markings are not an exact designation where the existing utilities are located below ground. Over time, movement of the earth, such as the freeze-thaw cycle, can shift the location of existing utility lines left, right, up, and down.

Also, propane is not always considered a utility if it is located on private property. Some states may require the homeowner to contact their propane company to properly mark the location of propane lines that run underground.

As always, if you ever smell gas, vacate the area immediately and call local emergency responders. You’ll also need to contact Ferrellgas at 866-708-8209. Shut off your main gas supply valve if it’s safe to do so, and do not return to the area or go in your home until cleared by local authorities. To learn more about propane safety, click here. We wish you a safe and happy spring!