'Think Before You Dig' DIY Tips
- Think ahead - before you start, you should contact your local energy network operator to source the electricity and other utility plans for your property.
- Check and identify - once received, you should use a Cable Avoidance Tool (CAT and Genny) to locate all the cables shown on the plans, marking their location on the ground surface as you go.
- Use your hands - once identified, you can begin to hand-dig trial holes to find their exact position. Do not use a mechanical excavator / drill for this.
- If in concrete, make a call - if you find an underground cable embedded in concrete always assume it is live and do not attempt to break it out. Contact your electricity network operator to ensure it is de-energised.
- Know when to vacate - if you damage an underground cable, vacate the excavation immediately, phone your electricity network operator emergency number (or 105) and keep everybody clear of the area.
- Know who to call - in case of emergency, immediately phone 999 and your local electricity network operator using 105.
Plan, Scan and Think before you dig!
In case of emergency
You can call 105 to report or get information about power cuts in your local area.
You can also call 105 if you spot damage to electricity power lines or substations that could put you, or someone else, in danger.
If there is a serious immediate risk, you should call the emergency services too.
