10-digit dialing in northern Indiana area codes to begin this April

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On Saturday, April 24, everyone in the 219 and 574 area codes are encouraged to begin using 10-digit, instead of seven-digit, dialing to make local phone calls.

This transition will become mandatory by Oct. 24, 2021.

The new dialing system is to accommodate the implementing of the national “988” National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which will be fully applied by July 16, 2022.

Residential consumers and businesses in the 219 and 574 area codes must know these facts:

• Your telephone number/area code will not change
• In these area codes, you will need to dial the area code + telephone number (a total of 10 digits)
• All long-distance calls will still require dialing 1 + area code + telephone number (a total of 11 digits)
• Calls that are currently local will remain local
• 10-digit dialing will not change the price of a local call, coverage area, or other rates and services
• You can still dial three digits to reach 911 (emergency services), 211 (social services), 411 (directory assistance), 711 (telecommunications relay service), or 811 (call to request utility locate before you dig)
• Start including your area code when giving out your phone number
• Make sure all preprogrammed numbers for local calls are set to include the area code (like fax machines, life safety systems, etc.)
• Make sure your website, stationery, checks, pet tags, etc. include your area code
• Any safety and security equipment must be programmed to include 10-digit local dialing unless they’re already directed to long-distance or toll-free.
• Contact your medical alert of security provider if you are unsure if your equipment needs to be reprogrammed.

All reprogramming must be completed by Oct. 24. Customers are encouraged to begin this process as soon after April 24 as possible.