News
After Hurricanes Katrina and Rita swept through in 2005, issues with offshore pipelines and the need for a one-call system covering the Gulf of Mexico came to the forefront. GulfSafe was developed to address these concerns in the Gulf and began operation February 16, 2009. Unlike traditional one-call operations, GulfSafe’s notification process is primarily web-based. Most notifications are requested through GulfSafe.com or by calling 1-888-910-4853 (GULF).
Electric power associations build underground power lines to withstand most damage due to natural causes. But nothing can protect them from the direct impact of excavating equipment – except the operator’s awareness of electrical safety. Most important, electrical safety measures can help prevent a tragedy: If you strike an underground power line while digging, you could seriously injure yourself, and those around you, and knock out electric service to homes and businesses in the area.
It’s a fair question. Amanda Russell, GIS Manager for Mississippi 811, explains to those who have asked before, “The first step in making that happen is for the caller to provide GPS readings for the excavation sites. While we aren’t quite prepared to implement automated driving directions, it is a service that we are considering how best to implement.”
Finally, Mississippi 811's landbase map is being developed for excavators. Mississippi 811's landbase map is recognized as one of the best in the state, primarily because it receives updates daily, so it is constantly evolving and changing to more closely represent the real world.
Mississippi Public Service Commission, Mississippi 811, and the MDPC have committed to take the damage prevention message through a series of six regional meetings to various locations across the state. Four of the six meetings have been conducted.
