Getting a new phone in eastern Missouri? You may be surprised to not be issued a number beginning with the 314 or 636 area codes. A new area code, 557, is being rolled out by the Missouri Public Service Commission to help accommodate the growing number of telephone users in St. Louis, St. Louis County and surrounding counties.
Aug. 12 is when the first 557 numbers are due to go into service.
According to the North American Numbering Plan Administrator, the 314 area code numbering system will be “exhausted in the third quarter of 2022.” Adding in a new area code will ease the problem, offering many thousands of new number options.
The commission reported that customers who already have a 314 number that their service will not be interrupted or compromised.
“All existing 314 area code customers will retain their current area code and their telephone numbers will not be changed,” the commission said in a written statement.
In October, people had to start dialing the full 10 digits – the area code plus the phone number – to complete any call made across the country.
The Federal Communications Commission recently adopted 988 as a new number to connect callers to the National Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Crisis Lifeline in the U.S., and starting July 16, 2022, those who dial “988” automatically will be connected to that line, in much the same way they are when dialing “911” to connect to first responders.
During the transition to 988 service, Americans who need help should continue to contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling 1-800-273-8255 (1-800-273-TALK). Veterans and service members may reach the Veterans Crisis Line by pressing “1” after dialing, or texting 838255.
People may still dial just three digits to reach 711 (relay services) and 911 (emergency services), as well as any 211, 311, 411, 511, 611 or 811 services available in the community.
The Missouri Public Service Commission reminds phone users to make sure their full, 10-digit number is on website, personal and business stationery, advertising materials, personal and business checks, contact information, personal or pet ID tags, and other such items.
For more information, visit the FCC website at fcc.gov/suicide-prevention-hotline.