Local 10-digit dialing: Coming soon to regions served by the 705 area code

Businesses and residents encouraged to begin preparing early for new dialing rules

OTTAWA, March 3 /CNW Telbec/ - Starting January 15, 2011, residents of Ontario in the 705 area code will be required to dial 10 digits - the area code followed by the seven-digit phone number - for all local calls. The introduction of 10-digit dialing is the result of a decision by the Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) and will pave the way for the addition of a new area code, 249, in March 2011, as the 705 area code reaches capacity.

The 705 geographic area covers a broad territory, including Barrie, Sudbury, Peterborough, Sault Ste. Marie, North Bay, Lindsay, Huntsville, Mattawa, Timmins and Midland. The Telecommunications Alliance, which represents major telecommunications companies, is spearheading a public awareness campaign about local 10-digit dialing to inform business and residential customers in this area.

"Having already successfully transitioned to local 10-digit dialing in many regions in Canada, we are confident these changes will be seamless for residents and businesses," said Glenn Pilley, spokesperson for the Canadian Numbering Administrator. "In order to ensure a successful transition, we recommend that people start reprogramming their equipment to comply with 10-digit local dialing as soon as possible. Most telecommunications companies operating in the 705 area have already prepared their networks for this new local dialing method."

Residents should add the 705 area code to programmed numbers in all of their telecommunications devices (e.g., autodialers, fax machines, computers) and verify that their alarm systems are compatible with local 10-digit dialing. Companies that use numerous telecommunications systems and devices should also take the necessary steps to update their equipment. All adjustments should be made before January 15, 2011.

New area code

Starting in March 2011, a new area code, 249, will be added in the 705 region using the overlay method. This new area code will coexist with the current 705 area code and will cover the same geographic area. Customers with area code 705 numbers will retain their numbers. Numbers in the new 249 area code will only be assigned to customers for additional services on an as needed basis. Introducing a new area code does not affect local calling areas in any way.

The Telecommunications Alliance

The Telecommunications Alliance, whose members include Bell, Rogers and TELUS, was formed to spearhead this public awareness initiative. Interested parties can find more information at www.dial10.ca.

For further information: Kristin Gable, OPTIMUM Public Relations, [phone], [email protected]; Source: The Telecommunications Alliance