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Show - x w v . : ;:wC:-v- v -VX' ::"-'"A v . , "A ' ; A .v,- V ' I I - r; V COSTLY REPAIRS become necessary when private contractors or residents accidentally cut underground utility cables. Problems Pro-blems can be avoided by calling the Blue Stakes Center two working days prior to digging. Free service clears digging around buried utility cables Planning on digging some post holes for a fence, or doing some landscaping that requires digging? If so, you should call the Blue Stakes Center a computer service bureau private citizens can call to find out if buried cable is located in the area they plan to dig. Mountain Bell, Utah Power & Light and Mountain Fuel are three principal Blue Stakes members. They and other members are financially responsible for providing the free service to the public. "Too many times, people start to dig and run into utility cables," said Roger Swensen, manager of Blue Stakes ' Center. "Unless the customers have called and received verification from our service, they may be liable for the damages. There are also safety hazards and the possibility of loss of service if cables are damaged." When a customer calls the Blue Stakes Center, the phone conversation is recorded and each customer is given a verification number. "If people get the okay to dig, and for some reason a cable is still damaged, the callers are covered because the conservation has been recorded," Swensen said. "State law requires customers to call at least two working days in advance. That way, we check the land before they start to dig. "It's surprising how many hundreds of miles of telephone and other utility " cables are buried in this area. Therefore, it is to the advantage of the citizen, both legally and financially, to use the services of the Blue Stakes Center." Two telephone numbers are available to call the Blue Stakes Center. In the Salt Lake area call 532-5000. Anywhere else in the state call 1-800-662-4111. Whether digging a major excavation and grading, or just putting in a fence or some landscaping, it's a good idea to call the Blue Stakes Center. Such a call can save headaches and money. |