The Telecommunications Alliance today announced the launch of a multi-media communications campaign that will help Manitobans prepare for the introduction of 10-digit dialing.
The ever-growing popularity of new telecommunications services and changes in the competitive environment are driving a huge increase in demand for phone numbers in the region. That is why 10-digit dialing will be required for all local calls in Manitoba. This dialing method allows for the introduction of a new area code that will double the available phone numbers in the province.
The communications campaign includes: print, web, and radio advertisements; notifications to business and consumer associations; and a website that provides useful information on how to prepare telecommunications systems for the new dialing procedures. The campaign will remain in market until the introduction of 10-digit dialing on July 29, 2012.
“10-digit local dialing affects all residents and businesses in Manitoba. It is imperative that consumers and businesses understand the importance of reprogramming their systems and communications equipment prior to July 29, 2012 in order to avoid any inconveniences caused by the changes. The goal of our communications efforts is to ensure Manitobans clearly understand the steps that need to be taken ahead of time,” stated Glenn Pilley, spokesperson for the Canadian Numbering Administrator.
How to prepare for 10-digit dialing
1. As of July 29, 2012, start using 10 digit dialing
Starting July 29, 2012 all local calls made within Manitoba will require 10-digits to be dialed– the area code followed by the seven-digit phone number. As of this date, local calls dialed with only seven digits will be generally intercepted by a network announcement before being connected. This recorded announcement may disrupt data transmission, so it’s important to make the necessary dialing changes in advance of July 29, 2012.
2. Reprogram your equipment
All consumers and businesses must 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.
3. Consult the checklist
Consumers and businesses are invited to consult the checklist available on the Telecommunications Alliance website.
New area code
In November 2012, a new area code, 431, will be added in Manitoba. This new area code will coexist with the current 204 area code and will cover the same geographic area. Customers with area code 204 numbers will keep their numbers. Numbers with the new 431 area code will only be assigned to customers on an as-needed basis. Introducing a new area code does not affect local calling areas in any way however, adding a new area code to a calling region requires changes in local dialing habits. Since the same phone number can then exist in both area codes (e.g.: 204-555-1234 and 431-555-1234), 10-digit local dialing becomes mandatory so that local calls can be connected and reach their appropriate destinations.
