Virginia 811 Launches Interactive AR App to Promote Safe Digging Practices

Virginia 811 Introduces Free Augmented Reality Experience to Bring Damage Prevention Education to Life

Virginia 811 has launched Underline Quest, a free augmented reality (AR) mobile app designed to educate users about underground utilities and the importance of contacting 811 before digging.

Available for both iPhone and Android devices, the app combines interactive gameplay with real-world-inspired scenarios to teach damage prevention in an engaging way. Players investigate utility damage incidents, uncover clues and answer questions that reinforce safe digging practices while learning how underground infrastructure supports essential services.

Unlike traditional educational materials, Underline Quest uses augmented reality to immerse users in situations that demonstrate how everyday projects can affect underground utility lines.

"Technology gives us new opportunities to connect with communities and make important safety messages more accessible," said Scott Crawford, president and CEO of Virginia 811. "Underline Quest helps bring visibility to something most people never see — the underground infrastructure that supports our daily lives. By creating an interactive experience, we can help more people understand why contacting 811 before digging is such an important step."

Virginia 811 Public Awareness and Training Manager Frank Giannini said the app provides another way to make damage prevention education more memorable and accessible.

The app was developed through a partnership between Virginia 811, MISS DIG 811 in Michigan, Texas 811, and technology company YottaFlex. Organizers say the collaboration combines industry expertise with interactive technology to increase public awareness of safe excavation practices.

Underline Quest is free to download and contains no advertisements or in-app purchases. It is intended for homeowners, students, educators, safety advocates and organizations looking to promote underground utility safety.

The app is available through the Apple App Store and Google Play. More information is available at VA811.com/Underline-Quest.

About Virginia 811

Virginia 811 is a nonprofit organization created by Virginia's utility companies to help protect underground infrastructure and promote safe excavation practices. The organization operates a 24-hour contact center that processes locate requests and notifies utility operators throughout the Commonwealth before excavation work begins.