Always make sure you call before you dig. That’s the message that Ameren Illinois is telling the public.  Rick Johnson with Ameren says to call 8-1-1 before you dig and always remember JULIE. That is the acronym for the organization that handles the dig calls. 

The call to JULIE must be made at least two business days before digging. As far as the different colored flags and painted marks that you see, those have special meaning as well. 

Johnson shared a startling statistic about people coming into contact with electricity.

You should make sure there is at least 18 inches that separate your tree or anything you plant from lines that run through your yard. Johnson says to ask yourself why do I want to plant this tree.

For more information, visit Ameren and make sure you call 8-1-1 before you dig.