LAKE COUNTY, Ohio – If you have a 440 area code, be prepared to change the way you call.
With the launch of the new three-digit national suicide prevention hotline, Area Code 440 has been identified as one of two Ohio area codes that will need to change the way it makes local calls. The other area code is 513 in the Cincinnati area.
“The new rules will apply to all telecommunications operators, as well as to all interconnected and unilateral Voice over Internet (VoIP) service providers. They ensure a two-year transition, reflecting the real challenges of this effort at the national level, including the need for large-scale network changes and the provision of time for the national suicide prevention hotline to prepare for the expected increase in call volume. . Under these rules, calls to 988 will be directed to 1-800-273-TALK, which will remain operational during the 988 transition and after it is completed, “the FCC said in a statement.
Starting April 24, you will need to use the area code before the phone number to make the call if you have a 440 area code.
According to the FCC, seven-digit calls should be completed, but will no longer work after October 24th.
Starting July 16, 2022, if you call “988”, you will be directed to the rescue line of the national crisis for suicide prevention and mental health.
RELATED: The National Suicide Prevention Hotline receives a 3-digit call