A Quiet Day Turns into a Cautionary Tale
What started as a routine excavation in View Royal quickly turned into a public safety concern earlier this week when a gas line was accidentally struck, prompting emergency response and a street closure. Thankfully, no one was hurt—but the incident serves as a powerful reminder: always Call Before You Dig.
Incidents like this aren’t isolated. According to FortisBC, which provides natural gas to communities across British Columbia, there are hundreds of preventable gas line hits each year due to unnotified digging activities. Whether you’re a contractor or a homeowner putting in a new fence or garden bed, this applies to you.
Thinking of home upgrades? Check out Safe Outdoor Upgrades Every Homeowner Should Know for practical DIY tips that prioritize safety.
Why You Must Call Before You Dig
Underground infrastructure is closer than many people realize. In BC alone, there are thousands of kilometers of buried utility lines — gas, electricity, water, and telecom — often just a few inches below the surface.
The “Call Before You Dig” initiative is part of BC 1 Call, a free service that notifies utility companies to mark buried lines before any excavation begins. It’s not only the responsible thing to do — in many cases, it’s a legal requirement.
“A simple call can prevent a dangerous and costly mistake,” said a FortisBC spokesperson in the wake of the View Royal gas line hit.
Need help navigating local safety regulations? Explore Navigating Safety Rules in Shared Living Spaces for insights on homeowner and strata responsibilities.
So how does it work? You simply submit a locate request through BC 1 Call online or by calling 1-800-474-6886 at least three business days before digging. Utility providers will either send maps or mark your property in person.
What Happens When You Don’t Call?
In the View Royal case, emergency crews responded quickly, and FortisBC safely shut off the supply. But ruptured gas lines are no small matter — they can lead to fires, explosions, and evacuation scenarios. ReadMore
Besides safety, skipping this step can result in significant fines, delays, and out-of-pocket repair costs. According to the Canadian Common Ground Alliance, damage prevention is everyone’s responsibility.
Here’s how to stay safe:
- Plan ahead – Know your project’s timeline and scope.
- Contact BC 1 Call – Do this at least 3 business days before digging.
- Respect the markings – Don’t assume “a little dig” won’t matter.
- Educate others – Contractors and DIYers must also be informed.
For a full checklist, visit our guide on Home & Living Safety Tips to ensure your outdoor projects are safe and code-compliant.
Final Thoughts: Safety Is Everyone’s Responsibility
The View Royal incident is a wake-up call — not just for construction crews, but for homeowners, landscapers, and everyday DIYers. Whether you’re planting a tree or remodeling your patio, what lies beneath matters.
Let’s dig smart, not blind.
Bookmark this post and share it with anyone planning a home project this season. Because a quick call could save lives.
