NEWS RELEASE
ONTARIO ONE CALL
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April is “Dig Safe” Month
With spring in the air, Ontario homeowners are eager to start seasonal landscaping and outdoor renovation projects. Ontario One Call is urging homeowners to Call or Click Before You Dig as part of “Dig Safe” month this April.
Safe digging is serious business. In fact, it’s the law. Every Ontario homeowner, or their contractor, must contact Ontario One Call, the not-for-profit organization responsible for coordinating “locates”, prior to digging.
Ontario One Call is a free service … call 1-800-400-2255 or click www.on1call.com
Many homeowners are unaware that before digging, no matter how big or small the project, it’s critical to contact Ontario One Call to prevent any unforeseen damage to buried cables or utility pipes. This will also prevent the loss of essential services to homeowners or the surrounding neighbourhood.
“Whether you’re building a deck or fence, digging a new pool or planting a tree, play it safe and always contact Ontario One Call for locates,” says Ben Hamilton, Executive Director, Ontario One Call. “One click or call gives you the peace of mind knowing that you are protecting your home, family and neighbourhood.”
Once a locate request is made, Ontario One Call arranges for infrastructure owners to visit the property within five business days to mark underground cables or pipes in the vicinity of the planned excavation.
Property owners who do not contact Ontario One Call and damage underground infrastructure are fully liable for all damages, which can run into thousands of dollars. Similarly, a contractor can be charged and fined under the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
Despite these penalties, however, Ontario One Call reports that there are over 4,000 incidents of underground cables or pipes being damaged every year because a locate was not requested. The most frequent damage is to natural gas lines – a fire and safety hazard potentially involving police and the fire department.
Next time Ontarians visit the Home Depot they are encouraged to pick up a brochure or our homeowner tips to learn more about Ontario One Call and how easy it is to request a locate.
About Ontario One Call:
Ontario One Call is a not-for-profit call centre ready to serve Ontarians.
Plan at least five business days ahead to allow infrastructure owners enough time to complete their work.
Ontario One Call is a free service and can be contacted 24/7 … call 1-800-400-2255 or click www.on1call.com
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