Dialing expanding to include 10 digits
by Kristin Whitney, reporter

     Ten-digit dialing becomes mandatory in Fort Worth at 12:01 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 7, when a new area code, 682, is introduced in the 817 region.
     The new area code won’t affect long distance calls or calling areas, just how the calls are made.
     The 817 phone numbers will not change and calls to 911 and directory assistance will remain the same.
     An announcement—for at least the first month of 10-digit dialing—will remind people who don’t dial all 10 digits that local calls now require the area code plus the seven-digit number.
     The Texas Code Administration reminds consumers to check printed materials for the 10-digit number and reprogram speed dial, fax machines, wireless phones, Internet dial-up numbers and other electronic equipment in order to get ready for the change.
     People will also need to provide all 10 numbers on forms and when telling others their telephone number.
     The addition of the area code came as a result of the added influx of pager, cell phone and “computer lines” installed in the area, according to information provided by the Public Utilities Commission (PUC).
     A transitional 10-digit dialing period began on April 8 and expires Friday, Oct. 6, when everyone is required to dial all 10-digits.
     Callers who only use seven digits will be prompted with a reminder of the change.
     Area code relief projects are administered by the North American Numbering Plan Administration.
     More details about the area code change are available at the PUC website at the url www.texascode.com.