Stay safe near underground lines when working in the yard this spring

By Shannon Weidemann (McKone) on Thursday, April 15th, 2021 in Eastern/Southeast Oregon News More Top Stories

BAKER COUNTY – (Release from Idaho Power) April is National Safe Digging Month, and Idaho Power wants to help keep you safe while working on yard projects or planting trees this spring. That’s because power lines and other utility lines may be buried underground in your yard.

At least two days before any digging, call 811.This will help prevent safety hazards, potential power outages and costly repairs.

When you call, be prepared to give the location, scheduled date, type of work and information about the company or contractor doing the work (if it’s not you). After you provide information about your project, workers will come to your site and mark the locations of underground lines for free.

If you’re planting trees, keep overhead power lines in mind too. When tree branches touch power lines, they can cause outages and create safety concerns. Plan for tree growth, and plant the right tree in the right place.

For more information about staying safe near power lines, visit idahopower.com/safety.