Duke Energy and Piedmont Natural Gas Promote Safe Digging Practices

Utilities encourage customers to call 811 before any digging projects to avoid costly damages

Apr. 2, 2026 at 6:05pm

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Duke Energy and Piedmont Natural Gas are observing National Safe Digging Month in April by urging customers to call 811 before beginning any digging projects. The free 811 system helps protect underground utility infrastructure by having crews mark the location of electric, natural gas, water, sewer, telephone, and cable television lines. The utilities reported nearly 9,800 cuts to underground lines in their service territories in 2025.

Why it matters

Hitting underground utility lines during digging projects can lead to costly damages, service disruptions, and potential safety hazards. By promoting the 811 system, the utilities aim to prevent these incidents and keep customers and communities safe.

The details

Duke Energy and Piedmont Natural Gas are encouraging customers to call 811 at least three business days before starting any digging project. Utility crews will then be dispatched to mark the location of underground lines in the area with stakes, flags, or paint. The utilities reported over 9,800 incidents of damage to their natural gas and electric infrastructure across their service territories in 2025.

  • National Safe Digging Month is observed every April.
  • Customers should call 811 at least three business days before beginning a digging project.

The players

Duke Energy

A major electric and natural gas utility company serving customers in the Carolinas, Florida, Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky.

Piedmont Natural Gas

A subsidiary of Duke Energy that provides natural gas service in the Carolinas, Tennessee, and parts of Kentucky and Virginia.

Emily Henson

Senior vice president and president of Duke Energy's natural gas business.

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What they’re saying

“Underground utility lines can be present even just a few inches below the surface. Many digging and excavation incidents are preventable. A quick call to 811 can help you avoid costly, potentially dangerous damages.”

— Emily Henson, Senior vice president and president of Duke Energy's natural gas business

“Duke Energy and Piedmont Natural Gas are committed to keeping our customers and communities safe. Calling 811 to know what's below before you start any digging project is fast and free, and it's the best way to dig safely.”

— Emily Henson, Senior vice president and president of Duke Energy's natural gas business

What’s next

Customers can find more information on the 811 system and safe digging practices on the Piedmont Natural Gas website.

The takeaway

Calling 811 before any digging project is a simple, free step that can prevent costly and dangerous damage to underground utility infrastructure. By promoting this service, Duke Energy and Piedmont Natural Gas are helping to keep their customers and communities safe.