Kids’ Korner

Dig Smart, Stay Safe!

Meet Sammy & Suzy Shovel

Sammy and Suzy are just like the kids they meet—they love adventures, getting their hands dirty, and making their yard the coolest spot on the block. Sammy’s always dreaming up big projects, like building a skate ramp or staking a giant inflatable dragon for a birthday party. Suzy’s all about making things grow, whether it’s a row of sunflowers or a veggie patch for her pet bunny, Sprout. They love sharing their stories at schools, fairs, and community events, where they teach kids a catchy chant:

“Dial 8-1-1, before you dig!
No matter how small, no matter how big.”

They even have a secret handshake that ends with a pretend shovel scoop to remind everyone to dig smart.

Whether it’s Sammy’s construction know-how or Suzy’s green thumb, this dynamic duo makes safe digging exciting for kids and families across Ohio. So next time you’re ready to dig—whether it’s for a mailbox, a garden, or a holiday inflatable—remember Sammy and Suzy Shovel and call 811 first!

Education: For Teachers and Students

Join Sammy and Suzy Shovel in a safety adventure as they discover what underground utilities are, how they power our daily lives, and how to stay safe around them through Sammy Shovel’s Virtual Fieldtrip! This public safety program is FREE to schools across Ohio and offers flexibility for every classroom.

Don’t forget to ask about having Sammy or Suzy make an appearance at your school!

Resources for Kids!