According to the telephone company and as approved by the Public Utilities Commission, to ensure a continuing supply of telephone numbers, the 442 area code is being added to the area served by the 760 area code. Starting next week, all residents in the 760 area code will have to dial eleven digits for all calls (with the exception of 911), even local ones. In preparation of this change, I have included a notice below with some frequently-asked questions and helpful information:
What is the New Dialing Procedure?
To complete calls from a landline phone, the new dialing procedure requires all callers in the 760 or 442 area code to dial “1 + area code + telephone number.” To complete calls from a cellular phone, the “1” prior to the area code is optional.
When Will the Change be Mandatory?
Beginning October 24, 2009, you must use the new dialing procedure for all calls. If you do not use the new dialing procedure, your call will not be completed, and a recording will instruct you to hang up and dial again.
However, callers may begin using the new dialing procedure immediately.
Why is the Change Necessary?
To ensure a continuing supply of telephone numbers, the 442 area code is being added to the area served by the 760 area code. Since two area codes will now serve the same geographic region, the area code must be used when dialing any telephone number – including calls within the same area code. Beginning November 21, 2009, new telephone lines or services may be assigned numbers with the new 442 area code.
What Will You Need to Do?
In addition to changing your dialing procedure, all services, automatic dialing equipment, or other types of equipment that are programmed with a 7-digit telephone number will need to be reprogrammed to use the new dialing procedure. Some examples are life safety systems, fax machines, Internet dial-up numbers, alarm and security systems, gates, speed dialers, mobile phone contact lists, call forwarding settings, voicemail services, and similar functions. Be sure to check your website, business stationery, advertising materials, personal checks, contact information, and your personal or pet ID tags to ensure the area code is included.
What Will Remain the Same?
Your telephone number, including current area code, will NOT change.
What is a local call now will remain a local call regardless of the number of digits dialed.
The price of a call, coverage area, or other rates and services will not change due to the overlay.
You can still dial just three digits to reach 911, as well as 211, 311, 411, 511, 611, 711 and 811.
Who May You Contact with Questions?
If you have any questions regarding information provided in this notice, please call AT&T at 1-800-331-0500 or access the following websites for more information: www.att.com/california760 or www.cpuc.ca.gov/760areacode
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