NYSEG and RG&E Encourage Customers to Call UDig Before You Dig
Customers can help prevent outages by visiting UDigNY.org or calling 811 before doing any digging
BINGHAMTON, NY — April 23, 2026 — April is National Safe Digging Month, and NYSEG and RG&E are reminding DIYers and professional excavators alike to help protect themselves and their community by contacting UDig NY before beginning any digging, excavation or demolition project. Anyone planning to dig should submit an underground utility location request to UDig NY by visiting UDigNY.org or calling 811 before breaking ground. Location requests should be submitted at least two business days, but no more than ten business days, before excavation.
“Whether it’s a weekend DIY project or a large construction site, notifying UDig NY at least two business days before digging is critical to helping with our mission of providing safe and reliable power,” said NYSEG and RG&E CEO Trish Nilsen. “This simple action helps prevent service interruptions and safeguards the vital infrastructure our communities rely on.”
Accidental damage to underground utilities can result in costly repairs, serious injuries, and service outages. Striking a buried utility can also create hazardous conditions, such as gas leaks or electrical faults. Even projects like tree removal, fencing, and landscaping work can pose a threat to safety when they are done without knowledge of the approximate location of underground utilities.
After submitting a location request, UDig NY processes and transmits the information to its member facility operators. These operators are responsible for marking the approximate location of any underground public utilities in the designated dig area. To learn more about submitting a request, understanding utility mark-outs, and other critical safe digging guidelines, visit UDigNY.org.
“Breaking ground without a location request dramatically increases the risk of hitting a buried utility line and puts your entire community at risk,” said UDig NY President & CEO Kevin Hopper. “Taking just a few minutes to visit UDigNY.org or call 811 helps keep everyone safe. This National Safe Digging Month, we encourage everyone to follow safe digging practices and notify UDig NY before they dig.”
Media Contact:
Max Weissman