CALGARY, ALBERTA — (Marketwired) — 10/09/14 — In response to the increasing demand for new phone numbers in Alberta, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) is adding a new area code to all of Alberta. Beginning April 9, 2016, the new area code, 825, will ensure Alberta residents and businesses continue to have enough available phone numbers.
“The introduction of a new area code in a region enables millions of additional telephone numbers to be provided without affecting the existing numbers,” said Glen Brown, spokesperson for the Canadian Numbering Administration. “It is part of today–s reality throughout North America. This measure demonstrates the flexibility and growth potential of the Canadian telecommunications network.”
This new 825 area code does not affect existing numbers and there is no need for customers to change from their current area code. In areas where there is still a sufficient supply of 403, 587 and 780 numbers, they will continue to be assigned to customers.
Starting April 9, 2016, the new 825 area code will be assigned to residential and business customers where existing area codes are no longer available or in the event a customer chooses to change their number. Timing and availability of phone numbers with the new area code will vary by community, depending upon the local inventory and demand.
The geographic boundaries that govern long distance calling will not be affected.
The Western Telecommunications Alliance, a group of Canada–s major telecommunications companies, is working to inform all customers and businesses about the additional area code. To ensure a seamless transition, businesses are encouraged to begin making any necessary changes by reprogramming communications systems and equipment. For example, businesses that restrict long distance calls will need to reprogram their equipment to accept the 825 area code as local. Residential customers will not need to make any changes to their equipment.
Three-digit numbers such as 211, 311, 411, 611 and 911 emergency services will not be affected.
About the Western Telecommunications Alliance
The Western Telecommunications Alliance is a partnership between the major telecommunications companies and industry associations across Canada. The Alliance–s mandate is to educate and inform consumers and businesses about the implementation of new area codes.
Contacts:
Media Contact:
Chris Gerritsen, on behalf of
the Western Telecommunications Alliance
403-530-4919
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