On November 16th 10-digit local dialing becomes mandatory for all local calls in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island

New area code 782 will be added starting on November 30

HALIFAX, Nov. 12, 2014 /CNW Telbec/ - Starting November 16, 10-digit dialing will become mandatory for all local calls in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, which brings the three-month transition period to an end. Since August 23rd, local calls made using seven digits were generally interrupted by a recorded announcement before the call went through. As of November 16, local calls will no longer be completed without first dialing the 902 area code.

The Telecommunications Alliance is sending a final advisory to businesses and consumers to ensure that all numbers stored in the memory of various communication devices have been programmed for 10-digit dialing.

"We are pleased with the participation rates among NS and PEI residents," stated Glen Brown, spokesperson for the Canadian Numbering Administrator. "However, we must highlight the need for callers to ensure that all numbers stored in communication systems and devices - particularly in alarm systems, Internet dial-up connections, building intercoms, and call forwarding devices - have been programmed for 10-digit dialing. This will help avoid any disruptions after the cut-off date of November 16."
Useful information can be found at www.dial10.ca/checklist

Network message

Starting November 16, local calls dialed with seven digits will be interrupted by a network message asking the caller to hang up and redial using all 10 digits. Telecommunications providers will introduce this network message throughout their network starting November 16 until November 23. It is a staggered roll-out that will gradually take effect throughout the various regions in both provinces until the network update is entirely completed.

New area code

Starting November 30, 2014, the new 782 area code will be available 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.

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

SOURCE: TELECOMMUNICATIONS ALLIANCE

Donna Battista, [email protected], Citizen Optimum, T 514-282-4699