A screenshot of the new Safe Digging Digital Arcade created by Chattanooga Gas and Southern Company Gas in honor of National Safe Digging Week. Chattanooga Gas and its parent company, Southern Company Gas, have developed a new digital learning tool to teach children about natural gas safety and safe digging.
The Safe Digging Arcade, developed in honor of National Safe Digging Month, utilizes science, engineering, technology and math games to teach children how to dig safely, a news release states.
Digging without knowing the approximate location of underground utilities can result in damage to gas, electric, communications, water and sewer lines, ultimately leading to service disruptions, serious injuries and costly repairs, the company states. The arcade offers eight games, including puzzles and problem-solving activities, that educate children about how their families can avoid these types of accidents when digging around their homes.
"We are constantly looking for new and innovative ways to educate our communities about the importance of natural gas safety – and that starts with our kids," said Bryan Batson, president of Chattanooga Gas. "We have been providing safety and educational programs to school children for generations, but it is clear that now we needed a digital solution."
Anyone can dial 811 and utility companies will mark their underground services like gas, power, phone and cable lines with paint or flags for free.
Contact Allison Collins at acollins@timesfreepress.com if you have trouble accessing the arcade or reach out to Chattanooga Gas on social media for questions about the arcade, as well. To report service issues, concerns or bill payment, contact information is online via their website and on customer bills.