Everyone in the 530 will soon have to dial some extra digits for local phone calls.
Starting October 24, 2021, callers must dial 10 digits to connect local phone calls. That means area code and the 7-digit phone number.
Before this takes effect you should reprogram automatic dialing equipment and other devices currently programmed with seven digits. Check with your security companies to make sure their systems are set to handle the new 10-digit dialing.
The change affects 82 area codes in 32 states that currently permit 7-digit local dialing and contain telephone numbers with 988 prefix. The change will prevent people from calling the new 9-8-8 emergency phone line by mistake. 988 will be the new suicide prevention hotline starting July 2022.
