Residents and businesses encouraged to begin preparing early for new dialing rules
HALIFAX, May 8, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - Starting August 23, 2014, residents of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island 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, 782, in November 2014, as the 902 area code reaches capacity.
The ever-growing popularity of telecommunications services and changes in the competitive environment are driving a huge increase in demand for phone numbers in the region. That is why 10-digit local dialing will be required for all wireline and wireless local calls. This dialing method allows for the introduction of a new area code that will create millions of new phone numbers.
The Telecommunications Alliance, a group of major telecommunications companies operating in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, is spearheading a public awareness campaign about local 10-digit dialing to inform residential and business customers.
"Most regions in Canada have already successfully transitioned to local 10-digit dialing and we are confident these changes will be seamless for residents and businesses in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island," said Glenn Pilley, Director of 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 now, as telecommunications companies operating in both provinces are already able to support 10-digit dialed calls. By adopting 10-digit dialing habits early, residents and businesses will be well-prepared by August 2014."
How to Prepare for 10-Digit Dialing
Residents will need to add the 902 area code to programmed numbers in all of their telecommunications devices (including auto dialers, fax machines, computers and lifeline equipment) 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 must be made before August 23, 2014. Residential and business customers can also find useful information on the Telecommunications Alliance website at www.dial10.ca.
New area code
Starting in November 2014, the area code 782 will be added in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island using the overlay method. This means the 782 area code will coexist with the current 902 area code and will cover the same geographic area. Customers with telephone numbers that include the 902 area code will retain their numbers. Numbers with the new 782 area code will only be assigned to customers when the existing inventory of 902 numbers is depleted. Introducing a new area code does not affect local calling areas in any way. Adding a new area code to a calling region requires changes in local dialing habits. Since the same phone number can now exist in both area codes, 10-digit local dialing - the area code followed by the seven-digit phone number - becomes mandatory in order for local calls to be connected and reach their appropriate destinations.
The Telecommunications Alliance
The Telecommunications Alliance, whose members include Bell Aliant, Bell, Rogers and TELUS was formed to spearhead this public awareness initiative. Interested parties can find more information at www.dial10.ca
SOURCE: TELECOMMUNICATIONS ALLIANCE
Kristin Gable
Citizen Optimum
T 514 282 4841
[email protected]
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