Dialing Rules

Procedure

Area codes 540 and 826 are now an overlay. They are intermixed within the former 540 territory.

No longer allowed:

• 9 + seven digit number

When dialing a number within the 540 / 826 area code, attempt the call in this order:

1. Dial: 9 + (540/826) + seven digit number
2. Dial: 9 + 1 + (540/826) + seven digit number

Any time you get an error recording, note the exact message and try the next step.

Explanation: The first bullet above is the procedure for calling local numbers. The second bullet applies to long distance calls that are within the 540/826 area code. Since a number's geographical location (local vs. long distance) may be unknown, dialing attempts should be in the above order.

When dialing a number with something other than a 540 or 826 area code, dial:

• 9 + 1 + area code + seven digit number.

Emergency calls

• Dial either 911 or 9 + 911
  • Emergency calls to 911 are the only external calls that don't require a leading "9". However, dialing ""9911" is also accepted.

N11 calls

The system allows calls to the external, special-services three digit numbers that end in "11" (and also 988). However, including the leading "9" is required (except for 911 calls) just as it is for any other external outbound call.

Superseded Procedure, expiring 03/15/2022

• If a patron’s Area Code is something other than 540, you will need to dial 9 + 1 + area code + number.

If you are dialing a number with a 540 area code, attempt the call in this order. Any time you get an error recording, note the exact message and try the next step.

Dial:

• 9 + seven digit number
• 9 + 540 + seven digit number (no “1”)
• 9 + 1 + 540 + seven digit number

Still get an error? Report phone number to me, and include what messages are heard with each attempt.