Each year on August 11, the underground utility industry comes together to spread the word on the importance of Knowing What’s Below and Calling 811. APGA members participated in this public outreach effort. Here are just a few examples.
York County Natural Gas Authority (YCNGA) in Rock Hill, S.C., sponsored their local high school’s annual event that marks the start of the football season. An estimated 5,200 people attended the event. YCNGA had a photo booth backed by SC811 on hand and hand fans, ID pocket holders, and other various promo items were passed out. During the airing of the game 12 advertisements were broadcast with the 811 message and six in-game stadium announcements were shared.
The City of Rocky Mount energy resources department in Rocky Mount, N.C., used August 11 to do targeted outreach to their city management, city staff, and the local media regarding the importance of calling 811. They also had a targeted social media push on their Facebook page throughout the week before August 11. Their posts highlighted some of their locators and other field personnel.
Richmond Department of Public Utilities in Richmond, Va., appeared with their mascot, Utility Buddy, at the minor league baseball game. Buddy threw out the first pitch and Richmond live-tweeted his adventures at the ballpark. VA811 was also at the park and several 811 videos were broadcast to the attendees.
For questions on this article, please contact Erin Kurilla of APGA staff by phone at 202-905-2904 or by email at
ekurilla@apga.org.
