If your planned project includes digging, like planting a tree, a deck addition or a landscaping masterpiece, you need to find where the underground utilities are buried. This could be gas, water or electric lines, but not knowing before you begin your project can turn it into a disaster before it really even begins.

To find out where utility lines run on your property, dial 811 a few days prior to digging. Tell the operator where you're planning to dig and what type of work you will be doing and the affected local utilities will be notified.

In a few days, a locator will arrive to designate the approximate location of any underground lines, pipes and cables with flags or marking paint so you'll know what's below. Then the safe digging can begin.

Never assume the location or depth of underground utility lines. There's no need--the 811 service is free, prevents the inconvenience of having utilities interrupted from digging into a line by accident and helps you avoid serious injury. For more information about local services, visit