Working on an outdoor project? Here are five easy steps to keep people, utility lines and underground equipment safe during digging:

1. Notify

Call 811 or submit an online request at Georgia811.com two to three days before your work begins. Georgia 811, which is a free service, will notify affected utilities, including Jackson EMC, about your plans.

2. Wait

Wait two to three days for utilities to respond to your request. They will send a person to locate and mark any underground utility lines.

3. Confirm

Confirm that all affected utilities have responded to your request by comparing the flags to the list of utilities notified by Georgia 811.

4. Respect

Respect the designated flags or paint lines provided by the affected utilities. The designated flags or paint lines mark where underground utilities are located and are your guide for the duration of your digging.

5. Dig Carefully

If you can’t avoid digging near the designated flags or paint lines (within 18 inches on all sides), consider moving your project location.

For more information, visit jacksonemc.com/dig.