This from the Pharos Tribune: IN- Starting Oct. 24, callers will have to dial area codes for all phone numbers — even local ones.
However, people using a landline won’t need to dial a “1” before local calls, just the area code.
And they won’t be charged for a long-distance call by using the 10-digit dialing.
The state, under Federal Communications Commission designation, instituted the change to make electronic room for the new 988 emergency line that connects people directly to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
That became active July 16.
The 10-digit dialing officially started April 24, but there was a six-month grace period to get people used to the procedure.
But on Oct. 24, calls without the 10 digits won’t go through.
“If you do not use 10 digits, your call will not be completed, and a recording will instruct you to hang up and dial again,” according to an announcement from the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission and Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor.
People will have to reprogram electronic systems to use the 10-digit system. Those include phone line-based safety and security equipment, such medical alert devices and fire/burglar alarm systems.
Devices that already dial a toll-free area code, such as “800,” won’t need reprogramming. However, people should make sure their websites, pet ID tags, stationery, business cards, checks, advertising or other items that display phone numbers have a 10-digit number.
Those unsure whether their equipment needs to be reprogrammed should contact their medical alert or security provider.
Indiana isn’t alone in the change.
Some area codes in 35 states — including all four of Indiana’s neighboring states — are also going through the process.
Indiana’s 317 and 812 area codes have had the mandatory 10-digit dialing for several years. The state started it there because of new “overlay” area codes, or multiple area codes to an area due to lessening number supplies.
However, Indiana’s 260 and 765 area codes won’t switch to the 10-digit dialing requirement.
The change is being made to take some workload off of law enforcement and the justice system in suicidal, mental health and substance abuse cases, according to helplinecenter.org.
The new 988 and 911 are not the only three-digit codes in the country for specific needs.
The FCC designated 811 for underground utility location, 411 for directory assistance and 211 for community and social service information.
Other phone codes include 311 for municipal services, 511 for traffic information, 611 for phone companies and 711 for services to help the deaf use phones without text capabilities.
The requirement to use area codes will not mean a change in anyone’s phone number, including the existing area code.