If you’re making updates to your home or landscape or planning a repair on your property, it is very important to have the underground utilities on your property located and flagged before doing so.
In Illinois, calling 811 or “JULIE”, or in Indiana, calling Indiana811, before you dig is the proper way to begin any project that involves digging on your property. Failure to do so could result in a dangerous and hazardous situation called a cross bore.
What is a Cross Bore?
A cross bore is defined as “the intersection of an existing underground utility by a second utility installed using trenchless technology.” What does this mean in relation to your sewer line? Let’s say our technician is rodding your sewer line. If there is a cross bore, and our equipment hits it, then natural gas can enter your sewer line. The result is an extremely dangerous situation that poses an immediate threat to occupants and those nearby.
What Should You Do If You Discover a Cross Bore?
The first thing to do is evacuate the property. Ensure the homeowners, any workers and even neighbors move away from where the cross bore is located. Avoid anything that can cause a spark as that can trigger an explosion due to the gas. When in a safe place, call your gas company and let them know a cross bore was found. They are the professionals and can perform the necessary actions to remedy it and make it safe for you and others to return to your homes.
Although a rare occurrence, cross bores do happen. In fact, we have experienced some ourselves. The most important thing to remember is to take swift action if a cross bore is discovered on your property. If you have questions about cross bores or anything related to your drains or sewers, give us a call at Reid & Pederson today!