Letter to the Editor: Call before you dig

Spring is in the air, and gardeners in The Dalles will soon roll up their sleeves to get started on long-awaited yard work.

If that work includes digging, NW Natural wants to remind you to call 811 — the Utility Notification Center — to locate underground gas and other underground utility lines. This is a free service, and it’s not only a smart thing to do to help prevent damage: It’s the law.

Once you call, a technician will visit the property within two business days to locate your gas and utility lines. If a gas line has been accidentally damaged, remember these tips: Smell. Go. Let us know.

If you smell rotten eggs or hear a hissing sound, immediately leave the area on foot and then call NW Natural’s 24-hour emergency line at 800-882-3377.

Be safe this spring, and be sure to call before you dig.

Tonya Brumley

Community Affairs Manager

NW Natural