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Verizon ushers in 10-digit dialing system for Florida callers

Changes pave way for new 3-digit suicide prevention number

FILE - In this June 12, 2012 file photo, the Verizon logo is seen at Verizon store in Mountain View, Calif. Verizon is selling the segment of its business that includes Yahoo and AOL to private equity firm Apollo Global Management in a $5 billion deal. Verizon said Monday, May 3, 2021, that it will keep a 10% stake in the new company, which will be called Yahoo. (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma, File) (Paul Sakuma, Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Verizon recently announced that 10-digit dialing in multiple states, including Florida, will be required to complete local calls starting Oct. 24.

In Florida, callers must dial the 321, 352, 561 or 941 area codes that correspond with their location before punching in their 7-digit telephone number, according to the release from Verizon.

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The Federal Communications Commission said the new policy must be implemented so that a new 3-digit number, 988, can be used nationwide to reach the National Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Crisis Lifeline.

The 988 number, intended for mental health crises and emergencies, will supplement the current Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), starting July 16, 2022.

Verizon ushered in the 10-digit dialing option on April 24, but users could still complete calls using only their 7-digit telephone numbers, the release continued.

By Oct. 24, all customers are required to use the 10-digit dialing system.

Customer area codes and telephone numbers will remain the same, as well as prices for services. Users can still dial 3-digit emergency numbers without the area code.


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