Safe Digging Month

Proclamation

By the Governor of Alabama

WHEREAS, Alabama’s underground utility infrastructure is jeopardized by unintentional damage of those who fail to call 811 to have underground lines located prior to digging. Undesired consequences such as service interruption, damage to the environment, personal injury and even death are potential risks; and

WHEREAS, Alabama 811 and its 419 utility members promote the National Call-Before-You-Dig Number 811, in an effort to reduce these damages. Designated by the FCC in 2005, 811 provides potential excavators and homeowners a simple number to reach their local “one call center” to request utility line locations at the intended dig site; and

WHEREAS, through education of safe digging practices, excavators and homeowners can save time and money keeping Alabama safe and connected by making a simple call to 811 in advance of any digging project, waiting the required amount of time, respecting the marked lines by maintaining visual definition throughout the course of excavation and finally, digging with care around the marks; and

WHEREAS, safe digging is a shared responsibility; to know what is below and call 811 before you dig:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Bentley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim the month of April 2017, as

Safe Digging Month

in the state of Alabama and encourage all excavators and homeowners to always call 811 before digging.

Given Under My Hand and the Great Seal of the Office of the Governor at the State Capitol in the City of Montgomery on the 29th day of March 2017.

Robert Bentley

Governor