November 2026 News & Updates
November is a time to reflect on what we're thankful for. At Sunshine 811, it's our stakeholders and partners who make safe digging possible!
From the crews working in the field to the partners promoting damage prevention across Florida, we're grateful for everyone who plays a role in keeping our communities safe.
This month, we're putting that appreciation into action! With nominations now open for the 2027 Damage Prevention Ambassador Award, it's the perfect opportunity to recognize someone who goes above and beyond. We're also highlighting stories from the field and celebrating the partnerships that make a difference.
As we head into Thanksgiving, thank you for your continued commitment to safe digging.
Nominations Now Open
for the 2027 Damage Prevention Ambassador Award!
Every day, people across Florida go above and beyond to protect underground infrastructure, their crews and their communities. Now's your chance to recognize them!
Nominations are officially open for the 2027 Damage Prevention Ambassador Award! Whether it's an excavator who never skips a step, a locator who goes the extra mile, a utility partner who champions communication or a leader who makes safety part of the culture, we want to hear about them.
Help us recognize the individuals making a difference in damage prevention across Florida. Submit your nomination today!
Stories From the Field:
Safe Digging Starts with People Like You
Behind every safe digging project are individuals who go the extra mile to protect their crews, communities and underground utilities. This month, we're highlighting one of the many voices helping make damage prevention a priority across Florida.
Have a story to share ... a lesson learned that could help your peers? We learn best from each other and we want to showcase your stories and best practices that can help everyone improve safety practices. Share your story today!
5 Ways to be a part of Florida's Safe Digging Movement
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again – it takes a united effort to genuinely commit to making every excavation step a safe one ... to ensuring safe digging is the norm and not the exception.
There are five simple ways you can demonstrate that and show your leadership as a safe digging champion – whether that’s building a stronger safe digging culture on jobsites or joining a regional Damage Prevention Council. Check it out!
And here’s why we need everyone to get on board. Our 2025 Dirt on Damages report shows a 26% increase in damages year-over-year with known causes, top facilities being hit and leading damager counties. Take a look at our video to learn more. Review this with your team. Ask what you can do to help reverse course.
A Shared Commitment to Excavation Safety
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Safe digging starts with 811 and depends on communication every step of the way. Sunshine 811’s Excavation Safety Seminar on October 29, 2026, in Winter Park brought contractors, utilities, locators and other stakeholders together to explore shared challenges and opportunities to improve excavation safety. Through educational presentations and the panel discussion, “The Capacity Problem Nobody Owns,” attendees examined where communication and coordination break down—and why. The day encouraged participants to understand one another’s challenges, make connections and work together to prevent underground utility damage. |
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Thank You from the Sunshine 811 Team!
As we reflect on what we're thankful for this November, our damage prevention community is at the top of the list!
From supervisors and foremen ensuring every excavation step is safe to line locators who are accurately marking buried lines, thank you for doing your part to keep Florida safe.
From all of us at Sunshine 811, we wish you and your loved ones a happy and safe Thanksgiving!
2ND ANNUAL GREAT SAFE DIGGING PUMPKIN CHALLENGE
And the Winner Is…
Melanie Rohloff
Advanced Boring, Inc.
Congratulations to Melanie, and thank you to everyone who participated and helped celebrate safe digging through creativity!
Thank You for Displaying Your Commitment!
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Last year, we began distributing free window clings to equipment rental partners and other industry allies to help keep the safe digging message visible where it matters most. These simple decals serve as consistent, everyday reminders for crews and customers to contact 811 before any excavation work begins. We’re continuing that effort in 2026, and they’re available to you, too! If you’d like to display a Sunshine 811 window cling and share the importance of safe digging, please request one using the form below! |
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We're thankful for every opportunity to connect with our damage prevention community! Join us at upcoming Damage Prevention Council meetings throughout the state to share insights, strengthen partnerships and continue making safe digging a priority. VIEW CALENDAR |
