We hope you and your loved ones are safe after the impact of Hurricane Helene. As recovery efforts begin, we want to provide you with some essential tips and resources to ensure a safe and efficient return to normal operations.
- Assess Your Property Safely: After the storm, inspect your property for damage, but avoid areas with standing water or downed power lines. Do not enter flooded areas, as they may conceal damage to underground utilities.
- Request a New Locate Before You Dig: Even if your property was marked before the storm, floodwaters, erosion, and debris could have altered the location of underground utilities. Always submit a fresh locate request before starting any digging or excavation.
- Submit your locate request here: NC811 Online Portal (S.A.T.)
- Report Any Damage to Utilities: If you notice exposed or damaged utility lines, report them to your utility provider immediately. Avoid any contact with the lines, especially gas or electrical lines, which could pose serious hazards.
- Wait for Proper Markings: While we understand the urgency of recovery, it’s critical to wait for the utilities to be marked before starting any excavation. This will prevent further damage to essential services.
- Check for Permits and Guidelines: If major repairs or rebuilding are necessary, ensure that any contractors or workers follow local guidelines and obtain the required permits.
- Use Approved Contractors for Repair Work: Always hire licensed professionals for any repair work involving utilities or excavation. They will follow proper safety protocols and ensure compliance with regulations.
Do I need a locate when performing emergency excavation?
87-125 An excavator performing an emergency excavation or demolition is not required to give notice to the Notification Center as provided in 87-122. However, as soon as practicable, give notice to the Notification Center.
How do I know if a Facility Operator has declared an extraordinary circumstance that would prevent the operator from marking the location?
See who has declared Extraordinary Circumstances in NC
If I am a Facility Operator, how do I declare an Extraordinary Circumstance?
For specific information about declaring extraordinary circumstances through NC811 members should contact Member Services Manager Lesley Brouillard at lesley@nc811.org
For more information, visit Extraordinary Circumstances section of nc811.org.
Who can assist If I need a contact or have a question?
The NC811 Education Department is a wealth of knowledge and can assist with your questions. You can visit Educational Resources for contact information or online at Education Department Contact Form.
We’re committed to supporting your efforts during this challenging time. If you have any questions or need assistance with locate requests, don’t hesitate to contact us.
Thank you for your dedication to safety. Together, we’ll work through this recovery and help ensure the well-being of our communities.
Additional Resources for Recovery:
- Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA):
For disaster recovery assistance, including grants and support for rebuilding efforts, visit FEMA’s Recovery Resource Page.
- North Carolina Emergency Management:
For state-specific updates on recovery efforts and available resources, check out NC Emergency Management.
- NC811 Safe Digging Resource:
Our website contains a wealth of information about safe digging practices, emergency protocols, and educational materials. Visit us here: NC811 Resources