NORTH DAKOTA (KXNET) — People are beginning to become eager to start spring planting or landscaping, but Xcel Energy wants to remind everyone to call 811 before digging. Prior to a shovel entering the ground, underground utility lines — electric, natural gas, water, and cable — need to be marked, which will be free after calling 811. National Safe Digging Month takes place in April, and it's a reminder that digging without finding those utility lines can cause injuries, loss of life, and property damage, which can also lead to outages and fines. In 2024, Xcel Energy had eight incidents in North Dakota where people didn't call 811 and caused damage to buried natural gas or electric lines. "Our skilled operators manage a vast network of underground natural gas pipelines to deliver the reliable energy that our customers expect," said Xcel Energy's Senior Vice President, Gas, Lauren Gilliland. "Digging projects present the greatest threat to our infrastructure, and we want to remind businesses and homeowners to call for locates before starting a digging project." 3 expert tips for saving on credit card interest North Dakotans should submit an online request at least three days before the start of the project. No matter the size of the project, 811 needs to be contacted. 811 will notify utility companies of the resident's intent to dig, and for free, a professional will mark the locations of underground lines with flags, spray paint, or both. People should contact a private locator company to find lines that are not owned by a utility, such as pool heaters, garage lights, or gas grills. Here are five tips for safe digging: Always call 811 before digging, Depth can be deceptive — the depth changes over time from erosion, storms, floods, soil condition, heaving in winter from frost, and changes to landscaping. What you don't know can hurt you. Does it smell like rotten eggs? It could be from damage to a natural gas line. Hand dig first to expose the line. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Today's Top Stories SIGN UP NOW ...read more read less