PIERRE, S.D. — Mandatory 10-digit dialing will begin across South Dakota on October 24. Making phone calls on or after October 24 will require dialing the area code and telephone number.
The requirement is the result of the FCC establishing “988” as a suicide hotline dialing code.
“A byproduct of the FCC’s efforts to establish an easy-to-use suicide prevention hotline number is the upcoming requirement for all of us to use the full 10-digits, including area code, when dialing a phone number. Whenever possible, pre-program frequently used numbers into your phone to make this conversion easier,” recommends PUC Chairman Chris Nelson.
Earlier, the FCC determined that all area codes where 988 is a working prefix would be required to convert from seven-digit local dialing to 10-digit dialing prior to the 988 abbreviated code being put into use.
Nationwide, more than 80 area codes in 36 states will be affected to ensure ease of access to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
Starting July 16, 2022, dialing 988 will route your call to the National Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Crisis Lifeline.
Currently, those who wish to reach the Suicide Lifeline must continue to dial 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
