The Importance of Mississippi One Call Center
Do you know what lies beneath your feet? Underground utility lines, pipes, and cables crisscross the earth and power our homes, businesses, and industries. However, these crucial assets can pose a significant risk if not handled correctly. Digging without knowing the location of these lines can result in disruption of services, injuries, property damage, and even fatalities. Thankfully, Mississippi One Call Center is here to help.
Mississippi One Call Center is a free, non-profit service that operates as a communication link between excavators, contractors, and the owners of the underground facilities (natural gas, electric, telecommunications, water, sewer, cable TV). By calling 811 or submitting an online request, excavators can notify the One Call Center of their intent to dig or excavate on a particular site. The center then notifies the affected utility companies and they, in turn, send locators to mark the approximate location of their facilities within two business days. This process helps prevent accidental damage and ensures the safety of the public, workers, and infrastructures.
One Call Does It All
Mississippi One Call Center is the state’s one-stop-shop for all underground utility damage prevention. It provides a comprehensive service that covers the entire state, including rural areas, towns, and cities. The Center operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and 365 days a year, so you can submit your request any time of the day or night.Mississippi One Call Center’s mission is to promote public safety, environmental protection, and the preservation of underground facilities.
The Laws That Govern One Call Center
The Mississippi Legislature enacted the “Mississippi Underground Utility Damage Prevention Act” in 1988. The law mandates that anyone who engages in excavation, tunneling, grading, demolition, or any similar activity must contact the Mississippi One Call Center at least two working days (48 hours) before beginning the work. The Act also imposes penalties, fines, and liabilities to violators of the law. Thus, contacting the One Call Center is not only a good practice, but it is also a legal obligation.
The Benefits of Mississippi One Call Center
There are numerous benefits that Mississippi One Call Center offers to the public, including:
| Benefits | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Safe digging | Knowing the location of underground facilities minimizes the risk of accidental damage and injuries. |
| Saves time | Getting the location of underground facilities before excavation can save time and money by avoiding delays and unnecessary repairs. |
| Protects property | Preventing utility damages can prevent costly property damage and potential lawsuits. |
| Preserves the environment | Damage to underground facilities can pose an environmental hazard, such as gas leaks, oil spills, and sewage contamination. Preventing such damages protects the environment. |
| Easy to use | Submitting a request is quick, easy, and free. Call 811 or submit an online request. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Mississippi One Call Center?
Mississippi One Call Center is a free, one-stop-shop service that provides communication between excavators and the underground facility owners.
2. Who should contact the One Call Center?
All excavators, contractors, homeowners, and anyone who plans to dig or excavate must contact the Mississippi One Call Center at least two business days before starting the work.
3. What information do I need to provide when I call the One Call Center?
You need to provide your name, contact information, excavation location, and the start date and time of the work.
4. What happens after I call the One Call Center?
The One Call Center notifies the affected utility companies and they send locators to mark the approximate location of their facilities within two business days.
5. Is there a fee for using the One Call Center?
No. Mississippi One Call Center is a free service.
6. Can I still dig if the facilities are not marked within two days?
No. You must wait until the facility owners mark the location of their underground lines before you can dig.
7. What happens if I damage underground facilities?
You should immediately contact the facility owner and the Mississippi One Call Center. You may be liable for damages, penalties, and fines.
8. Can I submit a request online?
Yes. You can submit your request online at www.ms811.org.
9. How long does it take to process a request?
Mississippi One Call Center processes requests within minutes. The facility owners have two days to mark their underground lines.
10. Is Mississippi One Call Center available 24/7?
Yes. Mississippi One Call Center operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and 365 days a year.
11. How can I contact Mississippi One Call Center?
You can call 811 or visit their website at www.ms811.org.
12. What if I have an emergency and need to dig immediately?
If you have an emergency, such as a gas leak or power outage, you should contact the emergency number of the affected company.
13. What are the benefits of using Mississippi One Call Center?
Mississippi One Call Center promotes public safety, environmental protection, and the preservation of underground facilities. It also saves time, money, and prevents costly damages.
The Bottom Line
Mississippi One Call Center is a valuable service that protects the public and the underground facilities. By calling 811 or submitting an online request, you can help prevent accidental damages, injuries, and environmental hazards.
Take advantage of this free service, it’s fast, easy, and could save you time and money. Remember: Always call before you dig.
Disclaimer
The information in this article is for general information purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, attorney, or other qualified professional with any questions you may have regarding a specific legal, medical, or technical issue. The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Mississippi One Call Center.