With the growing popularity of communications services, the demand for new numbers will soon exceed the supply. That is why, as of May 17, 2010 all communications in the areas served by the 613 area code will begin coexisting with area code 343. The same change will also apply to the 450 region which will coexist with the new 579 area code.

Introduction of the 705 area code in the Ontario region:

Further changes will also take place in 2011. This is why as of January 15, 2011, 10-digit dialing – the area code followed by the telephone number, will apply to all local communications in the areas served by the 705 area code. This dialing method paves the way for the addition of the new 249 area code doubling the available phone numbers in the area.

All residential and business consumers from these regions need to reprogram their telephones, cell phones and other communications equipment, including alarm equipment, fax machines and dial-up Internet connections, by adding their area codes to programmed numbers and ensuring that all calling functions, databases, etc. are compliant with 10-digit local dialing.

Between now and January 15, 2011, consumers and businesses must reprogram telephone and communications equipment to comply with 10-digit local dialing.

IMPORTANT DATES

As of January 15, 2011

People living and working in Ontario’s 705 regions must dial the area code followed by the seven-digit phone number for all local calls. A network announcement will remind callers who forget to include the area code that they need to do so from now on. An important point to keep in mind is that data transmission may be affected by the announcement. It is therefore critical to adopt 10-digit dialing and reprogram all telephone and communications equipment to comply with 10-digit local dialing before these measures come into effect on January 15, 2011.

As of March 5, 2011

Calls made without the area code will not be completed.

As of March 19, 2011

Area code 249 will be gradually introduced as new numbers are assigned to customers. This new code will co-exist with area code 705 within the same geographic area. The new code will simply join the current one, with no impact on existing telephone numbers – a real advantage. This new area code will only be assigned to new numbers.

HOW TO PREPARE

Businesses should start preparing now

To ensure that your equipments are properly reprogrammed, please follow the instructions below.

All adjustments should be made before January 15, 2011, as the recorded announcement introduced on that date may disrupt data transmissions.

Who to alert

As of now, businesses and consumers should add their area code to their telephone numbers in all communications. Those who need to be notified include:

• Employees
• Customers
Partners and suppliers
• Friends and family

To ensure a smooth transition to 10-digit dialing, the Telecommunications Alliance, an organization whose members include Bell and other telecommunications providers, will be spearheading an information campaign aimed at residential and business customers in Ontario and Québec.

Visit www.dial10.ca for more information.