CenterPoint Energy encourages increased safety awareness during National Safe Digging Month

HOUSTON, March 31, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- CenterPoint Energy is once again partnering with the Common Ground Alliance and the Governors in each state the company operates to commemorate April as National Safe Digging Month, dedicated to increasing awareness of safe digging practices.

Throughout the busy digging month of April, when the potential for underground utility damage increases, homeowners and contractors are reminded that one free call to 811 before digging can prevent injuries, property damage, service disruption and possibly costly fines for damaged infrastructure.

"Contacting 811 at least two working days before digging prevents 99 percent of damages to vital underground utilities," said Joe Berry, director of Damage Prevention for CenterPoint Energy. "By calling 811 to have the underground utility lines in their area marked, homeowners and professionals are making an important decision that can help keep them and their communities safe and connected." 

The depth of utility lines varies and there may be multiple utility lines in a common area. So, whether it's a small project like planting trees or shrubs or hiring a professional for a special outdoor project, smart digging means calling 811 before each job.

Visit www.call811.com for more information about 811 and the call-before-you-dig process.

CenterPoint Energy, Inc., headquartered in Houston, Texas, is a domestic energy delivery company that includes electric transmission & distribution, natural gas distribution and energy services operations. The company serves more than five million metered customers primarily in Arkansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Texas. The company also owns a 55.4 percent limited partner interest in Enable Midstream Partners, a publicly traded master limited partnership it jointly controls with OGE Energy Corp.,  which owns, operates and develops natural gas and crude oil infrastructure assets. With more than 7,400 employees, CenterPoint Energy and its predecessor companies have been in business for more than 140 years. For more information, visit CenterPointEnergy.com.

For more information contactOlivia RossPhone   713.207.3288Pager    713.619.5143

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SOURCE CenterPoint Energy