Canadian communications companies are trying to ensure the province’s addition of a new area code is seamless.
A public awareness campaign started by the Telecommunications Alliance aims to inform New Brunswickers about local 10-digit dialing and the new area code.
As a result of a decision by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission, starting Jan. 20, 2023, dialing 10 digits for all local calls is necessary.
This paves the way for the 428 area code, which will address capacity issues for the 506 area code.
“In order to ensure a successful transition, we recommend that people start reprogramming their equipment for 10-digit local dialing now, as communications companies are already able to support 10-digit dialed calls. By adopting 10-digit dialing early, residents and businesses will be well-prepared by January 2023,” said Kelly T. Walsh, Program Manager of the Canadian Numbering Administrator stated in a news release.
By the start date, residents must add the necessary area code to programmed numbers in communications devices and equipment such as phones and computers.
Meantime, the start of the 428 area code begins about three months later. As of April 29, 2023, the new area code will be used once the existing inventory is depleted.
