SAFETY CAMPAIGN OFFERS SUMMER TIPS

CONTACT:  Kevin T. Chmura
815/741-5005
chmura@illinois1call.com

JOLIET, ILLINOIS – For many Americans, summer means fun in the sun. The kids are out of school, adults are on vacation and it's time for planning outdoor celebrations and activities. However, the Joint Utility Locating Information for Excavators (JULIE, Inc.) reminds homeowners and contractors that adopting safe digging practices may prevent injuries and protect property and the environment.

“Coordinating beautification projects and entertaining guests outdoors is a traditional part of many summertime activities,” said Kevin T. Chmura, director of public relations at JULIE, Inc.  “If the planning of a party or project involves any type of digging, drilling or inserting posts or tent stakes into the ground, a call to JULIE should be on the priority list.  Both the call to JULIE and service provided by members are free to the excavator.”

SUMMER SAFETY TIPS

Here are some safety tips from JULIE, Inc. that will help keep everyone safe this summer:

1)      Call JULIE, Inc. prior to digging at 1-800-892-0123.  Mark the excavation site in white to help the locator limit their markings;

2)      Wait for the site to be marked with paint, flags or stakes (two working days);

3)      Respect the marks; and

4)      Dig with care—always hand dig within 18” of marked lines.

JULIE, Inc. also offers a free guide that includes additional tips to help homeowners have a safe, injury-free summer. For a copy of the guide and more information, visit www.illinois1call.com.

Call center operators are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  Illinois law requires anyone digging to call JULIE at least two working days prior to the start of excavation and to begin that project within 14 calendar days from the call.  The 48 hour notice does not include Saturdays, Sundays or holidays.

JULIE, Inc. neither owns nor marks any underground facilities.  JULIE is a not-for-profit corporation that provides excavators with a toll-free number (1-800-892-0123) for the free locating and marking of underground facilities.  JULIE serves as a notification service for underground facility owners, taking information about planned excavations and distributing this information to its membership. 

Established in 1974, JULIE represents 1,750 members.  JULIE has 100 employees during peak periods and is located in a state-of-the-art facility in Joliet, Illinois.