10-DIGIT LOCAL DIALING
What is 10-digit local dialing?
10-digit local dialing means that you must dial the area code followed by the seven digit phone number for all local communications eg: 519 123-5555.
What regions are affected by 10-digit local dialing?
In 2006, the regions covered by area codes 519 and 613 in Ontario and 450, 514 and 819 in Quebec will adopt 10-digit local dialing for all local calls - a dialing method already in use in the Toronto and Vancouver areas.
When should I start using the area code in local calls?
By June 17, 2006, but you can start adding the area code to all local calls right now.
What will happen if I dial a seven digit number after the June 17, 2006 date?
A network announcement will prompt you to use 10-digit dialing the next time. The fact that this announcement may effect data transmission (faxes, modems, Internet, etc.) underlines the importance of quickly adopting 10-digit dialing.
What will happen if I dial a seven digit number after October 14, 2006?
After October 14, 2006, the call will not go through.
How should a 10-digit telephone number be written?
Write out 10-digit telephone numbers as follows: 519 123-5555. The area code should not appear in parentheses, since this may lead the caller to believe the area code is optional.
Why must 10-digit dialing be used for local calls in 519?
This will allow the same 7 digit telephone number to exist in any new area codes introduced into our existing area of 519. eg: 519 123-5555 and 226 123-5555.
What is the new area code?
The 226 code will be introduced in the territory currently served by 519.
When will the new area code be introduced?
The new area code will be gradually introduced starting October 2006 according to demand but not all new numbers will be assigned to the new area code. Numbers will continue to be assigned with the area code 519.
Can people continue to dial 9-1-1 in case of emergency?
Yes. The 9-1-1 emergency number and service will not change in any way.
Will internal 5-digit calls throughout the UWO and the Hospital Networks be affected?
No. Internal 5-digit calls will continue to be made in the same manner.
Will long-distance calls be affected?
No. Long-distance calls will continue to be made in the same manner. Simply dial "1" followed by the 10-digit number.
START PREPARING FOR THE CHANGES NOW
You can start using 10 digits now whenever you are dialing, or setting up forwarding on your phone, and certainly when you are programming any new devices. Get in the habit now and it will be less trouble later.
Remember that pre-programmed dialing must be fixed by June 17, 2006 or it may fail - you should start changing all 7 digit numbers to 10 digit numbers now:
- Speed-dial lists
- Auto-dial keys
- Fax machines
- Modems and Internet connections
- Cellular phones, PDA's and other wireless devices
- Security Systems or alert/alarm systems that automatically dial out or page
- Western Voicemail Callout -NOTE: for the few customers with pagers and cell phones that are activated directly by Western Voicemail, please contact the Customer Support Centre ext. 83800 or email helpdesk@uwo.ca to make this change
Gradually update your Electronic address books,
stationery and promotional tools starting now. Please use the new printed
format 519 123-5555 ( no brackets )
- Business Cards
- Stationery
- Electronic and Email signature files
- Web sites and intranet
- Departmental and local directory and contact files
- Brochures and catalogues
- Invoices
- Cheques
- Advertisements
- Local telephone directories
- Vehicles and signage
What about my listing in the on-line Western Directory?
The ITS directory team will change all existing entries effective May 1, 2006. After this date all new submissions must include 519.
For questions and help, please contact the Customer Support Centre ext. 83800 or email helpdesk@uwo.ca.
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