Issue link: http://publications.winnipegfreepress.com/i/1507966
A SUPPLEMENT TO THE FREE PRESS SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2023 15 T he days are getting shorter and temperatures are falling. Homeowners may be looking to squeeze in or wrap up that summer yard project. If that involves digging, resist the temptation to 'get 'er done' at the expense of good planning. Anyone planning to dig for a project – be it a fence post or a trench – must first take the first step to a safe excavation: click before you dig. Click Before You Dig MB (CBYD.MB) is a free service by the Manitoba Common Ground alliance (MCGA) and its members. This service provides underground screening for utilities, such as cables, pipes or gas lines, and notifies the utility owners. The owners are required to mark out their utilities before the excavation starts. The MCGA is dedicated to ensuring public safety, environmental protection, and the integrity of utility services by developing and promoting effective damage-prevention practices. Other effective damage-prevention practices are shared through the Canadian Common Ground Alliance Best Practices, of which the MCGA is a member. Rob Morrison, co-chair of the MCGA, says the due diligence to prevent underground damages is critical and that there are many possibilities of what could be found during a locate. "Manitoba is in the middle of a few major projects enhancing its fiber optic distribution throughout the province. Though a homeowner or contractor may think they know where the underground utilities are, things are changing and rather quickly," says Morrison "Gone are the days where we can just pick up a shovel and dig." It's not worth the risk. From buried lines to old services, there's more in the ground than we think. Morrison states that there a number of reasons why you should plan ahead. Locating and marking utility lines prevents what can be serious and expensive damage to buried utilities, but it also prevents potential harm to people and damage to personal property. Striking a utility can be dangerous, but it will also delay your project for what might be an extended period. "By planning ahead and requesting a locate, you receive critical information of what may be below. You are also provided directions by the utility owner on how to dig safely, minimizing risk and helping to ensure your project's success." Although many people assume cables and utility lines are buried deep underground, sometimes they are not. Even nicking a line can cause serious issues. Engaging Click Before You Dig Manitoba is completely free, as well as the locate itself. Visit Click Before You Dig Manitoba at clickbeforeyoudigmb.com, to get started on a safe yard project. SUPPORTING INVESTMENT IN CORE INFRASTRUCTURE • Pre-Construction • General Contractor • Construction Manager • Design-Builder info@mdsteele.mb.ca • 204.488.7070 • mdsteele.mb.ca 26-1051 Kapelus Dr, West St. Paul, MB R4A 5A4 HILLCOUNSEL.COM Build your case on a strong foundation. We have the expertise, the experience and the right tools for every job. A Leading Litigation Boutique For Over 30 Years.