Dial the digits. 8-1-1. That’s the only safe way to approach any potential digging or excavation project.

While we officially recognize August 11 as National 811 Day, safety matters 365 days a year. So when you’re working on an outdoor project, call 8-1-1 first, because you never know what’s below. Here are five easy steps for safe digging:

1Notify
Call 8-1-1 or make a request online two to three days before you start.

2 Wait
Wait two to three days for a response to your request. Affected utilities will send a locator to mark any underground utility lines.

3 Confirm
Confirm that all affected utilities have responded by comparing the markers to the list of utilities the 8-1-1 call center notified.

4 Respect
Respect the markers provided by the affected utilities. They are your guide for the duration of your project.

5 Dig Carefully
If you can’t avoid digging near the markers (within 18-24 inches on all sides, depending on state laws), consider moving your project.