Include the area code when you dial phone numbers

A move by the FCC to provide access to mental health services has required a change to the way you make a local phone call. Beginning October 24th, which is a little over a week away, if your current area code is 314, 417, 660 or 816, you will need to dial the area code for all local calls. On and after this date, local calls dialed with only 7 digits may not be completed, and you’ll get a recording telling you that the call cannot be completed as dialed. You have the option of dialing all 10 digits now, in order to get into the habit. The 10 digit dialing requirement includes cell phone calls.

According to the FCC, in addition to changing the way you dial local calls, automatic dialing equipment, or other types of equipment will need to be reprogrammed to complete calls to 10-digit numbers, including fire and burglar alarm and security systems. The easiest way to ensure that your services, fax numbers, and dialing equipment are operating appropriately is to make the change to make sure that the equipment is set to use the 10 digit number. When using your phone to make a long-distance call you will still need to dial 1 first, but again all local calls will require your current area code and phone number.