Phone companies phase in 10 digit local calls

Ottawa and Gatineau residents will soon have to dial the area code to make a local phone call.

The 10-digit local dialing will be phased in over the next six months for residents served by area codes 819 and 613.

However, phone companies in Ontario and Quebec are urging customers to begin dialing all 10 digits on Thursday to get used to the change.

Starting on June 17, a recorded message will also remind callers to dial the full 10 digits next time, but the phone call will still go through.

Internet connections, faxes and other data transmission will need the 10 digits, starting on that date.

Ten-digit dialing becomes mandatory for local calls on Oct. 21.