Memphis Light, Gas and Water Division is honored to mark National 811 Day, observed each year on August 11 (8/11). Call 811 Day reminds everyone to always call 811 before you or your contractor start any digging or construction projects to prevent damage to underground utilities such as gas, electric and water lines and to keep you and your family safe.

When you call 811, your underground utility lines will be located and marked free of charge. Tennessee law requires that you call the Tennessee 811 call center three business days before any digging begins. Damage to utilities can occur during installation of a fence or mailbox, building a deck or additional room, and even gardening or planting trees.

“It’s important to focus on safety,” says MLGW President and CEO Doug McGowen. “We want everyone in Memphis and Shelby County to realize that underground utility lines can be disturbed or damaged by common home improvement projects.”

Digging without calling can result in damage to underground utility lines, gas leaks, explosions, harm to residents, disruption of neighborhood service, and fines and repair costs for those responsible.

If you or your contractor hit or damage a utility line in the process of excavation, immediately stop digging and call MLGW. Remember that natural gas smells like rotten eggs or sulfur. If you smell this strong odor, evacuate the area immediately and call MLGW’s emergency line (528-4465) and call 911. MLGW reminds everyone that the best way to avoid these dangerous situations is to always call 811 before you dig.

More information on Call 811 and natural gas safety can be found on MLGW’s website at mlgw.com or visit Tenn811.com.

Memphis Light, Gas and Water is the largest three-service public power utility in the nation, serving the residents of Memphis and Shelby County, Tennessee since 1939. MLGW consistently provides customers with rates that are amongst the lowest in the nation and stewards a water supply from artesian wells that is minimally treated. Actively engaged in promoting the prosperity of Memphis and Shelby County, MLGW supports the seven local chambers in its service area and makes doing business with local, minority- and women-owned business a priority. Deeply rooted in the community, its employees generously donate time and money in support of bettering the Greater Memphis area.