Starting October 24, local phone calls require area code

The Federal Communications Commission adopted 988 as a new three-digit number to be used nationwide to reach the National Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Crisis Lifeline. Customers must continue to dial 1-800-273-TALK to reach the Lifeline until July 16, 2022.

In order for 988 to work in these two area codes, mandatory 10-digit local dialing will be implemented. To complete all local calls, you will need to dial the area code plus telephone number. Anyone with a telephone number from your area code will need to make a change from 7-digit local dialing to 10-digit local dialing.

On and after October 24, local calls dialed with only 7 digits may not be completed, and a recording will inform you that your call cannot be completed as dialed. You must hang up and dial again using the area code and the 7-digit number. For questions, call Cincinnati Bell at (513) 565-2210 or access www.cincinnatibell.com/10digitdialing for more information.