10-digit local dialing starts in Manitoba this Sunday

WINNIPEG, July 24, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - Beginning July 29, residents of Manitoba will be required to dial 10 digits - the area code followed by the seven-digit phone number - for all local calls. Local calls dialed with only seven digits will be interrupted by a recorded network announcement before being connected.

"If they have not already done so, residents and businesses are urged to add the area code 204 to programmed numbers in all of their telecommunications devices (e.g., phones, fax machines, computers). They must also include their 10-digit phone numbers on cheques, advertising, and stationery; and update their employee, client, supplier, and other databases," stated Glenn Pilley, spokesperson for the Canadian Numbering Administrator which is the organization responsible for the administration of Canada's telephone numbers.

Special numbers like 9-1-1 will still be dialed using three digits - no area code is required

Network message
Starting July 29, 2012, local calls dialed with seven digits may be interrupted by a network message. The message reminds callers that they must dial 10 digits when making local calls. This recorded announcement may disrupt data transmission, so it's important to make the necessary dialing changes in advance of July 29, 2012. Calls will continue to be connected until October 20, 2012, after which time seven-digit local calls will not be completed.

New area code
Starting November 3^rd 2012, a new area code, 431, will be added in Manitoba. The new code will join the current 204 area code, with no impact on existing telephone numbers - a real advantage. The new area code will be assigned only when the existing inventory of 204 numbers is used up.  Introducing a new area code does not affect local calling areas.

Key dates in 2012:

• July 29 - The transition to 10-digit local dialing will start. If the area code is not dialed, the caller will generally hear a reminder message before the call is completed.
  
  
• October 20 - 10-digit dialing will be mandatory. If the 10-digit number is not dialed, the call will not be completed.
  
  
• November 3 - New area code 431 will be gradually introduced.

The Telecommunications Alliance
The Telecommunications Alliance, whose members include MTS, Rogers, TELUS, Bell and Westman Communications Group, was formed to spearhead a public awareness initiative. More information can be found at www.dial10.ca.

SOURCE: TELECOMMUNICATIONS ALLIANCE

Source: The Telecommunications Alliance

Contact:
Kristin Gable
OPTIMUM Public Relations
[email protected]
855 234-2510

To reach Telecommunications Alliance members

MTS : [email protected]
Rogers : [email protected]
TELUS : [email protected]
Bell : [email protected]
Westman : [email protected]