April is National Safe Digging Month

Image of a construction worker digging a hole in the ground

April is National Safe Digging Month, and Ferrellgas is encouraging customers to call 811 before they start any type of landscaping project this spring. The safety of our customers and employee-owners is our number one priority, so we want everyone to know where their underground utility lines run, including propane lines, before they dig into the ground.

Locating your utility lines is easy. Simply call 811 or use this state-by-state map to find an expert in your area. A professional will mark the lines before you dig. Keep in mind, in some states, propane lines on private property are not marked through 811. You may need to contact your propane provider directly to locate those lines.

It’s important to note that you’ll need to leave some space around the marked utility lines when digging. Factors such as the freeze-thaw cycle or soil changes can move the lines slightly. The extra clearance helps you avoid hitting them when you dig into the ground.  

It’s also important to familiarize yourself with what you should do if you smell gas. Leave the area immediately and call 911 for help. You’ll also need to contact Ferrellgas at 866-708-8209. If you can safely do so, shut off your main gas supply valve. Don’t return to your home, or the area where you smelled gas, unless authorities say it is safe to do so. You can learn more about propane safety by clicking here.