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Communications: 10 Digit Dialing

As phone numbers in our area code get used up for home & business phones, fax machines, cell phones and now PDA computers new area codes must be added for local calling needs. This means that we now need to dial 10 digits inctead of the traditional 7 digits.

As everybody transitions to 10 digital local calling, users will be given a message to remind you to add the area code to future numbers dialed...if youdial 10 digits now, you skip the message. This message may cause immediate problems with fax machines, interfering with the fax "screech".

There are a few things everyone may need to do to get ready for 10 digit calling.

Individuals

• Reprogram your telephone equipment and use 10-digit local dialing now.
• Add the area code to all programmed numbers in your telecommunications equipment, including:
  • Speed-dial lists
  • Telephone options like call forwarding, call blocking, call display, etc.)
  • Fax machines
  • Modems and Internet dial-up systems
  • TDD Equipment for the hearing impaired
  • Cellular phones and other wireless devices
  • Home Alarm and security systems (which may no longer work after 10 digit dialing is mandatory)
• Add your 10-digit phone number on your personal cheques, personal stationery, insurance policies, etc.
• Add your 10-digit phone number on your personal web sites (Facebook, MySpace, LinkedIn, etc)
• Always specify your area code whenever you give out your telephone, cellular phone, pager or other numbers (especially in voice-mails!)

Businesses

• Reprogram your telephone equipment and use 10-digit local dialing now.
• Add the area code to all programmed numbers in your telecommunications equipment, including:
  • Speed-dial lists
  • Telephone options and functions (e.g. call forwarding)
  • Fax machines
  • Modems and Internet connections
  • Cellular phones and other wireless devices
  • Security systems
  • Private branch exchanges (PBXes) and voice messaging
  • Auto-dial systems
  • Databases (employees, partners, suppliers, customers, etc.)
• Update your stationery and promotional tools.
  • Advertisements
  • Brochures and catalogues
  • Stationery, business cards, invoices and cheques
  • Business directories
  • Local telephone directories
  • Vehicles and signage
  • Web sites and intranet
  • Email signature files

New Area Codes