It's all in preparation for mandatory 10-digit dialing which begins next year in the 706 area code.
BellSouth's Paul Chambers says the change in dialing habits is necessary because of plans to begin assigning new phone service a 762 area code, probably early next year.
More people moving to Georgia, coupled with the explosive growth of wireless phones and Internet technologies, have led to the introduction of a new area code to complement the existing 706 area code in Georgia, Chambers said. With the introduction of the new 762 area code, an "overlay" of the 706 area code, residents in the Athens, Augusta, Columbus, Cornelia, Dalton, LaGrange, Rome and Toccoa areas can begin 10-digit dialing September 1, if they are not already doing so. After April 3, 2006 10-digit dialing will be mandatory.
The state Public Service Commission and the North American Numbering Plan Administrator (NANPA) earlier this year unanimously recommended the new area code to accommodate growing demand. Although it will still be a local call, customers on the Georgia border of Alabama, South Carolina and Tennessee will also need to dial 10 digits to reach Georgia residents. Customers will be notified via bill inserts, direct mail, envelope messages and other communications.
Chambers said you should keep in mind these Important notes if you have phone service in the 706 area code
*There will be no change in existing telephone numbers, calling areas or rates.
*All customers who currently have a phone number with a 706 area code will keep the 706 area code. Phone numbers with the new 762 area code will be issued after May 16, 2006.
*Beginning April 3, 2006, 10-digit dialing will be required to complete calls. All customers with 706 and 762 area codes must dial 10-digits on all calls, including those within and between the 706 or 762 area codes.
He offered these tips to prepare for 10-digit dialing:
*Familiarize yourself with dialing 10 digits after September 1 to prepare for mandatory 10-digit dialing on April 3, 2006.
*Begin to reprogram equipment, such as wireless phones, speed dials, call forwarding, call block, dial-up Internet connection, modems and fax machines.
*There is no need to reprint checks, stationary, business cards and signage if they have the 706 area code. If they don't, be sure to order new materials with your expanded 10-digit number before the mandatory 10-digit dialing deadline.
*Customers who have security systems will need to contact their vendor to determine reprogramming needs for 10-digit dialing.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2005/8/127204