The gas network provider is encouraging householders to exercise caution when undertaking any excavation work as warmer weather and the long weekend inspire a surge in home improvement activities.

The company is highlighting the dangers of striking underground gas infrastructure during external projects, with particular concern during the bank holiday period.

A company representative explained that the organisation maintains the gas pipeline network running beneath roads, private gardens and agricultural land, ensuring communities remain connected and secure.

With the early May bank holiday drawing near and conditions becoming more favourable, numerous residents are expected to commence landscaping, construction and gardening work, which naturally increases the potential for hazardous situations.

Unintentional strikes on gas mains frequently occur when excavation takes place without first establishing the location of buried services, leading to escapes of gas that can ignite and cause devastating blasts.

Such events endanger human life, property and income, while also generating substantial bills for remediation and considerable inconvenience, with financial penalties for repairs and potential legal consequences also possible.

The organisation is advising homeowners to implement safety measures before commencing work on boundaries, outbuildings, conservatories, parking areas or standard garden maintenance, and to assess whether excavation is advisable.

The recommended approach follows three key stages, known by the acronym DIG:

D represents Dial – contact the utility provider on 029 2027 8912 or use the online portal at www.wwutilities.co.uk/dig to obtain pipe location information.

I stands for Investigate – secure current maps of the gas infrastructure and evaluate whether a physical inspection of the site would be beneficial. Properties fitted with gas meters should note that the service line extends underground from the meter, requiring heightened vigilance in those areas.

G signifies Go – proceed only when it has been confirmed safe to do so.

Excavation should be carried out carefully, particularly when employing powered equipment, given the severe consequences of rupturing gas infrastructure.