INGHAM COUNTY - April is Safe Digging Month and Miss Dig wants you to know some important tips about the digging process.

Whether you're planting a tree, building a deck, or even installing a fence, people should always call 811 first. By calling Miss Dig beforehand it can prevent accidents and injuries, as well as repair costs and fines.

The number of days prior to calling Miss Dig varies by state, and for Michigan it's no less than three days but no more than 14 in advance.

After calling the 811 number, your affected local utility companies will send people out to your dig site to mark the approximate location of buried electrical lines with flags or paint.

Once flags are in place it is safe to start digging, and safety is top priority at Miss Dig.

For more information, visit www.call811.com.