Starting Sunday, Arizonans with 480, 928 and 520 area codes will have to dial the full 10-digit number for local calls.
That's because those area codes include phone numbers with a 988 prefix. As of summer 2022, that three-digit number will ring the Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Hotline.
"They're going to hear a message that they must dial the entire 10 digits. And we've been sending out press releases from the Corporation Commission; I believe the telecommunication companies have also been doing that. So hopefully people realize they just need to dial that area code in order to comply," said Lea Márquez Peterson, who chairs the Arizona Corporation Commission.
The change affects 90 area codes in 35 states and Guam, but not Phoenix's 602 and 623 area codes.
If you or someone you know may be considering suicide, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 (En Español: 1-888-628-9454; Deaf and Hard of Hearing: 1-800-799-4889) or the Crisis Text Line by texting 741741.
