SCG, CNG Remind Customers to Call Before You Dig
Companies highlight the importance of calling 811 to prevent injuries, service disruptions, and damage to underground infrastructure
ORANGE, Conn. - April 28, 2026 — In recognition of National Safe Digging Month this April, Connecticut Natural Gas (CNG) and Southern Connecticut Gas (SCG), subsidiaries of Avangrid, Inc., are reminding customers that state law requires a Call Before You Dig request prior to any excavation work. Whether you’re a homeowner or a contractor, the companies are stressing the importance of marking underground utilities, even for small jobs like fence posts or mailboxes, to help prevent damage and keep everyone safe.
“Calling 811 before digging is one of the easiest ways customers can protect themselves and their communities,” said Frank Reynolds, President and CEO of SCG and CNG. “It allows underground utilities to be clearly marked in advance, helping crews and homeowners avoid damage to critical infrastructure. Education and prevention are key to reducing injuries and service disruptions, and safety remains our highest priority.”
Incidents caused by third‑party damage to underground natural gas and electric facilities can pose serious safety risks and disrupt essential utility services. Many of these incidents are preventable by contacting Call Before You Dig to ensure utilities are properly marked prior to the start of work.
“We know many homeowners are eager to get outside as soon as temperatures rise, and start working on their yards,” said Giancarlo Romero, Senior Director of Gas Operations at SCG and CNG. “Jobs big or small must respect safety laws and take precautions. Calling 811 in advance helps safeguard workers, homeowners, and the infrastructure we all rely on.”
The first step is contacting Call Before You Dig by dialing 811 or submitting an electronic request at CBYD.com at least two full business days prior to the start of any digging or excavation. Once a request is received, representatives from local utility companies will visit the property to identify and mark underground utilities using color‑coded paint, flags, or stakes.
Tips for a safer digging project include:
Plan for gas utility conflicts as part of all underground construction.
Mark out the area of construction.
Properly notify the central clearing-house; call Call Before You Dig at 800.922.4455.
Provide adequate training and supervision on a job site to ensure that good construction practices are followed.
Properly maintain all underground utilities markings.
Hand dig in the area of underground gas facilities in accordance with dig safe requirements.
Provide adequate protection and support for gas facilities.
Notify the gas company if a gas facility is damaged or disturbed so they can make repairs if required.
Use and properly install suitable backfill material around gas facilities.
For gas emergencies or to report damage, contact:
Connecticut Natural Gas: 866‑924‑5325
Southern Connecticut Gas: 800-513-8898
In the event of an immediate threat to life or safety, call 911.
Media Contact:
Beltran Lopez de la Osa