As spring and summer gardening start to take shape, NW Natural is reminding homeowners, contractors and landscapers to call 811 before they start digging. The company says to call to locate underground utilities at least two business days ahead of starting any project that involves digging. Locate requests can also be made online at Washington811.com. The company said it responds to more than 500 dig-ins or damages each year in its service territory. Often the damage is caused by a third-party contractor or homeowner who didn’t call 811 before starting a project. Some popular projects involving digging include planting trees and shrubs, building a fence, building a deck or patio and installing a mailbox. NW Natural reminds folks to report damages immediately by calling its 24-hour emergency line at 800-882-3377 or 911.

“No damage is too small to report, even a small dent could weaken a natural gas line,” read a statement from the company. The company also suggest reporting smells of natural gas. If such scent is noticed, NW Natural says to leave the area immediately and call the emergency number. For more information, visit nwnatural.com/safety/call-before-you-dig.