Local 10-digit Dialing and a New Area Code coming to New Brunswick in 2020
Thursday, 16 May 2019 10:30.AM
- Residents and businesses encouraged to begin preparing early for new 10-digit dialing.
Starting August 13, 2020, local 10-digit dialing will be introduced in New Brunswick. Residents will need to dial 10 digits – the area code followed by the seven-digit phone number – for all local calls. The introduction of 10-digit dialing is the result of a decision by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) and will pave the way for the addition of a new area code, 428, in November 2020, as the 506 area code reaches capacity.
The ever-growing use of communications services is driving the increase in demand for phone numbers in the region, which means 10-digit local dialing will be required for all wireline and wireless local calls. This dialing method allows for the introduction of a new area code that will create a large supply of new phone numbers.
The Telecommunications Alliance, a group of major Canadian telecommunications companies, is leading a public awareness campaign to inform residents and business customers across New Brunswick about local 10-digit dialing and the new area code.
"Most regions in Canada have already transitioned to local 10-digit dialing and we are confident these changes will be seamless for residents and businesses in New Brunswick," said Edward Antecol, General Manager of the Canadian Numbering Administrator. "In order to ensure a successful transition, we recommend that people start reprogramming their equipment for 10-digit local dialing now, as most telecommunications companies are already able to support 10-digit dialed calls. By adopting 10-digit dialing early, residents and businesses will be well-prepared by August 2020."
How to prepare for 10-digit dialing
Residents will need to add the 506 area code to programmed numbers in all of their communications devices and equipment (including phones, auto dialers, fax machines, computers and lifeline equipment) and verify that their alarm systems are compatible with local 10-digit dialing. Companies that use numerous communications systems and devices should also take the necessary steps to update their equipment. All adjustments need to be completed before August 13, 2020. Additional information is available on the Telecommunications Alliance website at dial10.ca.
New area code
Starting on November 21, 2020, the area code 428 will be added in New Brunswick using the overlay method. This means the 428 area code will coexist with the current 506 area code and will cover the same geographic area. Customers with telephone numbers that include the 506 area code will retain their numbers. Numbers with the new 428 area code will only be assigned to customers when the existing inventory of 506 numbers is depleted. Introducing a new area code does not affect local calling areas in any way. Adding a new area code to a calling region requires changes in local dialing habits. Since the same phone number can now exist in both area codes, 10-digit local dialing – the area code followed by the seven-digit phone number – is necessary in order for local calls to be connected and reach their destinations.
SOURCE: Telecommunications Alliance