CenterPoint Energy

    The dirt box

    As part of their gas safety initiative, CenterPoint Energy wanted to inspire the Mayor of Houston's staff to enroll in a Dig Safety Certification course. They are busy people. So how do you capture their attention? By sending a box full of dirt, of course.


    This box is designed to appear as if it is made entirely of dirt. Just like a construction worker who is about to dig a hole, there are no indications as to what might be waiting "below." Before the recipient opens the box, they are reminded that they need to call 811 before they dig.


Inside the box is real dirt. Buried in the dirt is a real pipe. It’s the kind of pipe you might break if you don’t call 811 before you dig. Inside the pipe is a note that speaks to the importance of calling 811 before you dig, as well as an opportunity to enroll in a dig safety class, sponsored by CenterPoint Energy.