10-digit dialling is coming to Manitoba in 2012

Next year Manitobans will join numerous other jurisdictions in Canada that have multiple area codes, and require ten digit local dialling. The new area code is 431. Effective July 29th, 2012 we will have to dial the area code followed by the seven-digit phone number for all local wireline and wireless calls.

The Telecommunications Alliance, which represents the major telecommunication companies operating in the province, has started an awareness campaign encouraging individuals and businesses to adopt the new dialling mode as of December 1st to ensure a smooth transition. Telecommunications service providers operating in Manitoba will all be able to support 10-digit dialled calls as of this date.

Alliance Spokesperson Glenn Pilley is encouraging individuals, but especially businesses, to begin preparing for the transition by adopting the ten digit dialling method as of December 1st. This should include reprogramming all applicable equipment and services with the new 10-digit dialling format, which is the current area code 204 and the 7-digit telephone number.

"In fact there are many areas in Manitoba, particularly in the Winnipeg area, where you can actually start preparing now. Ten digit dialling is available in that area. So the earlier you start, the more likely you will have things done," says Pilley.

All businesses must ensure their telecommunications systems and equipment comply with 10-digit local dialling; reprogram telephone functions; change their advertising and stationery; and update their employee, client, supplier, and other databases. As of July 29th, 2012, local calls dialled with only seven digits will generally be intercepted by a network announcement before being connected.  This recorded announcement may disrupt data transmission and therefore it’s important to make the necessary changes in advance.

Pilley stresses a call currently considered a long distance call will still be a long distance call after the full implementation of ten digit dialling, the same goes for calls currently considered local calls.

For more information on the 431 area code introduction, visit the Telecommunications Alliance website.

Anyone who already has a number with the area code 204 will keep the same number.