Now that warmer weather has arrived, you might notice more outdoor projects around your neighborhood, many of which require digging. April is National Safe Digging Month, highlighting the importance of following safety steps when creating holes in your property for new garages, gardens, and other projects. Before you pull out the shovels, here is everything homeowners insurance providers want you to know about digging safely.

5 Safety Tips for Digging Holes 

1. Call the Diggers Hotline

To confirm your area is safe for digging, contact the Diggers Hotline at 811 or online at least three business days before starting your project. They’ll ask for your address and project date, then provide you safety instructions including how to mark the designated area.

2. Use the Appropriate Tools

If your project sits near underground utility lines, use only smaller hand tools to prevent from hitting them, and stay at least 24 inches away from the outer edge of the lines. If you need to remove soil from near a pipe, use only gloved hands to keep from damaging them.

3. Dig Horizontally

Digging parallel reduces your risk of accidentally hitting an underground power or gas line. If you locate a line around your digging area, homeowners insurance providers suggest calling a professional excavating company to prevent liability.

4. Work With Insured Contractors

If you’re hiring a a general contractor to oversee your outdoor project, ensure they’re licensed and insured. Ask for their credentials or references, and conduct your own research with your state’s licensing board. If an accident happens on your property because of an insured contractor’s negligence, their insurance will cover repair costs.

5. Be Aware of Gas Leaks

Stay alert for any unusual sounds or odors around the area of your project that could signal an issue. An odor similar to rotten eggs flags a natural gas leak, and roaring, whistling or hissing could mean you ruptured a gas line. Vacate the area and contact an emergency service if you suspect you hit any line or pipe in your property.

During National Safe Digging Month, protect your home from liability with homeowners insurance from Northwoods Insurance Agency in Crandon, WI. For over 30 years, they’ve helped residents and business owners protect their property with renters insurance, auto insurance, life insurance, liability insurance, and other packages with the nation’s leading carriers at the best rates and terms. Visit their website to view what services they offer, then call (715) 478-2215 for a free, no-obligation homeowners insurance quote.