Southwest Gas Celebrates April National Safe Digging Month with Strong Safety Measures and an Increase in 811 Calls

2024 Data Reveals Increase in 811 Calls, Leading to Fewer Digging Damages

LAS VEGAS—April marks National Safe Digging Month, and Southwest Gas is excited to announce a 10 percent rise in calls to 811, the national 'Call Before You Dig' service, across its service territory. This increase has led to a seven percent reduction in underground infrastructure damage in 2024, underscoring the impact of safe digging practices on public safety.

Remember: Call 811 Before You Dig

During Safe Digging Month and year-round, Southwest Gas reminds the public that knowing what lies beneath the surface is essential, whether planting a tree, installing an irrigation system, or breaking ground on a major construction project. One simple call to 811 or an online request at call811.com at least two days before the start of a digging project will start the process of having underground utility lines marked with paint or color-coded flags, helping to prevent costly and potentially dangerous accidents.

The service is free, easy, and essential to protecting underground utility lines that may be buried just inches below the ground. Strikes to buried utility lines can cause serious risks and service disruptions, so this proactive measure is critical to keeping communities safe.

Recognizing and Responding to a Natural Gas Leak

Southwest Gas urges anyone who suspects damage to a natural gas line or detects signs of a natural gas leak—whether or not they are a natural gas customer—to evacuate immediately and call 911 and Southwest Gas at 877-860-6020 . Signs of a natural gas leak include:

• A distinct sulfur-like odor, similar to rotten eggs
• An unusual hissing or roaring sound near the ground or an appliance
• Blowing dirt, bubbling water, or discolored vegetation near pipeline markers or infrastructure