Around the country in the recent past, callers on landlines could simply dial seven digits to reach local numbers in the same area code. However, many parts of the country have recently adopted policies that require callers to dial the area code of both local and long-distance numbers alike, regardless of location and mode of calling. If you live in the 845 area code, you now have to dial 10 digits on your home phone. Here's a guide to why this is and what you need to do.

Why Some Areas Adopted 10-Digit Local Calls

In 2020, the FCC issued new rules that established “988” as the official three-digit number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. While this is a valuable public service that saves lives, this poses a problem for areas that used 988 in their home phone numbers. To resolve this issue, many areas have switched to mandatory 10-digit dialing for local calls.

The first three digits of a local seven-digit telephone number is called the “exchange.” Some places, including areas around Rochester, use 988 as an exchange number.

A caller who picks up the phone and dials “988” first will now likely be connected with the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, even if they intend to call a local number. This can obviously be stressful and confusing, which is why these areas had to switch to 10-digit local calling.

When This Change Happened

The FCC first suggested using 988 as the designated code for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline in 2019. The official rules were adopted in July of 2020 after a period of public debate. These rulings required all telecommunications providers to forward 988 calls to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by July of 2022.

Dialing

How to Make Local Calls

Because the Rochester area uses 988 as an exchange number, residents in these areas must now use 10 digits when making a local call, regardless of if it's on a cellphone or a landline. Whether you’re calling a business or a home phone number, first dial the 845 area code, then the seven-digit number.

How to Call the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

While these changes make calling local numbers a little more complicated, they do put lifesaving assistance at the fingertips of those in need. To reach the National Suicide Lifeline, simply dial 988 at any time. This works whether you’re using a home phone, mobile device, or VoIP service.

Since 1902, Warwick Valley Telephone Company has been serving homes and businesses throughout Orange County and northern New Jersey. They provide everything from home phone service to cutting-edge high-speed internet service. Visit their website for more on their home phone services, get updates and tips on Facebook, or call (845) 986-8080 to discuss your options.