Saskatchewan wants 639 as second area code

Running short on phone numbers, residents of Saskatchewan will be getting a second area code.

The committee in charge of implementing the new number is asking the Canadian Radio and Television Commission (CRTC) to approve 639 as the new code. 474 is another option, but the committee has asked specifically for 639.

“There were some negative connotations with 474,” explained SaskTel spokesperson Michelle Englot, pointing to the number four being considered bad luck in Chinese culture.

The CRTC will make the final decision. The new code is expected to be put in use in 2013.