From St. Louis, Mo.: Damage to gas and electrical lines is a growing concern, with over 83,000 reports in 2024. Many of these incidents could have been prevented by calling 811, a free national service that marks utility line locations. Failure to make this call was the cause of one in four damage reports.

A notable incident occurred when an excavator hit an electric line, causing a fire and water damage. The incident involved a subcontractor hired to mark the electric line.

Further details about underground utility damage and prevention measures are available from the source.