Home improvement and landscape project tips

(ARA) - Fall can be a great time to take stock of your home and landscaping and make some improvements.

Richard Childress, owner of Childress Vineyards, Richard Childress Racing and the No. 29 Shell-Pennzoil team, has done his fair share of home improvement projects, and has some tips.

"Be prepared and don't rush," says Childress. "That's the best advice I can give when it comes to building and home improvement. Avoid poor quality and dangerous situations by having a sound design, using the right materials, and calling 8-1-1 before you do any digging."

Hitting an underground facility could mean knocking out power or gas to your entire neighborhood. A quick and easy call to 8-1-1 will connect you with a local call center operator who will notify the underground facility operators so they can mark the approximate location of underground utilities such as natural gas and oil pipelines.

"Calling 8-1-1 will help you make sure you're clear to break ground and that you're keeping your neighborhood and environment safe," says Childress.

Planning ahead, calling 8-1-1 before you dig, and taking your time, will help ensure a safe and successful project.