Beginning April 24, 10-digit dialing will be coming to the 716 area code.

The Federal Communications Commission issued an important notice in phone bills this month stating this change. The reason being is the FCC has adopted 988 as a new three-digit number to be used nationwide to reach the National Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Crisis Lifeline starting July 16.

However, for 988 to work the 10-digit local dialing must first be implemented.

If callers forget and dial just seven-digits, calls will still be completed. On Oct. 24, however, all calls must be dialed with 10-digits — area code and telephone number — for all local calls.

In addition to changing the way local calls are dialed, all services, automatic dialing equipment, or other types of equipment that are programmed to complete calls to seven-digit local numbers will need to be reprogrammed to complete calls to 10-digit numbers.

Some examples are: life safety systems or medical monitoring devices, fax machines, lnternet dial-up numbers, burglar alarm and security system or gates, speed dialers, mobile or other wireless phone contact lists, call forward settings, voicemail services and other similar functions.

The notice also advises residents to check websites, personal and business stationery, advertising materials, personal and business checks, contact information, personal or pet lD tags, and other such items to ensure the area code is included.

Telephone numbers, including the current area code will not change. One plus the area code and the telephone number for all long distance calls will remain as well.

Callers can still dial just three digits to reach 711 (relay services) and 911 (emergencyservices). Any 211, 311, 411, 511, 611, or 811 services available in the community can still be reached by dialing their three-digit codes.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can still be reached by dialing 1-800-273-TALK (8255).