Construction season is upon us, for the most part, and that means utility and cable companies are taking the time to remind residents to be aware of where they are digging and what might be buried there.
CenturyLink, a cable company with operations throughout Michigan, has a simple way of making sure there isn't a problem with a project site--simply dialing 811 on the phone.
"We typically see an increase in cable cuts during the spring months," says Mike Clement, area operations manager for CenturyLink in Michigan. "We'd like to remind everyone to call before they dig or disturb the ground in any way. That includes such minor things as putting up a fence all the way to the construction of a new office building. If a cable is cut, it can disrupt emergency communications services and put people at risk."
Cable cuts aren't anything new to the communications industry. According to CenturyLink, thousands of cuts happen each year. But it's not the communication lines that are the biggest worry. Electrical cables are often buried as well, posing life-threatening risks to anyone who cuts into them.
"Imagine cutting a cable while installing a mailbox and disrupting 911 service to themselves and their neighbors, putting entire communities at risk," says Clement.
Usually communications cables are marked with orange warning signs, but residents and construction companies should call even if these signs aren't immediately noticeable.
By calling 811, or visiting the
Miss Dig website, cable cuts and the damages that can occur due to them can be completely avoided.
Writer: Sam EgglestonSource: Mike Clement, CenturyLink
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