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Show Prevent digging surprises Springtime means yard work, often including in-cluding the digging of post holes and excavation ex-cavation for repair or remodeling. Unfortunately, Un-fortunately, such digging can result in more than was bargained for - the cutting of underground utility lines and cables. To prevent such "shocking surprises," Utah homeowners and contractors are asked to call the Blue Stakes Center at 532-5000 532-5000 or 1-800-662-4111 before digging. The center is financed by Mountain Bell, Utah Power and Light, Mountain Fuel Supply and several other companies as a free service to the public. Manager of the center is Roger Swensen, who says a computer is used to discover the location of underground cable. "People's calls to us are recorded to protect them in case problems or disputes occur later," he says. "People who don't call and receive verification may be liable for damages." Utah State law requires citizens to call at least two working days (48 hours) before breaking ground. Blue Stakes personnel will check for cable locations. If there is cable in the area, they will mark it. If not. . callers will be notified. Swensen requests that digging near marked cable be limited to the use of shovels or other hand-held equipment to avoid damaging cable. Those who do accidentally ac-cidentally cut or chip cable are asked to call the Blue Stakes Center or the utility involved immediately so repairs can be made quickly. The center is open from 7:35 a.m. to 4:25 p.m. Monday thru Friday. "Early planning now can prevent costly repairs later," Swensen concluded. |