With warm weather hopefully around the corner, many outdoor activities will soon commence. It will also mark the beginning of digging season.
The Saskatchewan Common Ground Alliance (SCGA) will be hosting free breakfasts for construction workers and those involved in digging projects within the community to help raise awareness about the potential dangers that exist when digging into underground utilities.
On Thursday, April 3, the SCGA breakfast will be at the Bella Vista Inn in Humboldt. Also, there will also be a breakfast in Watson at the Town Hall on Wednesday, April 23.
The one-hour event will include a free breakfast, a 20-minute Dig Safe video presentation video and an opportunity to network with fellow industry professionals and utility owners.
“Last year, over 2,700 people attended these events, and we hope to surpass that number in 2025,” said Shannon Doka, SCGA Executive Director. “These breakfasts are a great opportunity to bring together anyone who prioritizes safe digging practices and community safety.”
Uncontrolled excavation is the leading cause of damage to underground infrastructure. This happens when people don’t know where important utilities are including gas lines, oil pipelines, electricity wires, water and sewer systems, and telecommunications cables are located beneath the surface.
There were 615 reported damages to buried infrastructure in the province back in 2013, which averages 2.5 per workday. The SCGA would like to see the number down to zero.
“Thanks to our generous industry sponsors, these breakfasts are completely free to attend,” Doka continued, “No one wants to be responsible for disrupting power to a neighbor’s home, a seniors center, or a hospital, but the consequences can go far beyond inconvenience, leading to severe financial penalties, serious injuries, or even fatalities.”
“Changes in surface conditions, such as farming activities or extreme weather, can cause utility lines to shift over time,” said Lisa Kosolofski, Director of Sask 1st Call. “If you’re ever unsure whether it’s safe to dig, always take the extra precaution and click before you dig.
To request a free locate from Sask 1st Call you can go online 24/7 at Sask 1st Call or by calling 1-866-828-4888 during regular business hours.