10-digit phone numbers in Manitoba

The 2-0-4 area code that’s defined this province for generations is about to get some competition.

In November, the prefix “4-3-1” will be handed to new users and to get Manitobans ready for the switch, they’re being asked to start using all ten-digits when dialing, instead of the usual seven.

“It is really all about Maniotba’s population growth, combined with the fact many people have multiple numbers… basically, we’re running out,” said Selena Hinds of MTS Allstream

So starting Sunday, Manitobans will hear an automated voice reminding them to use the area code each and every time they make a call. If they forget to use it after October 20th, the call won’t go through.

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Alarm companies that use a telephone-based alert system have been preparing for the change for months.

SI Alarms LTD says it switched its 500 home users last year. Without accounting for the area code, emergency calls made through the security system, might not go through.

“Any type of security trigger has to be reliable,” said Stefan Rafella of SI Alarms. “So it’s no laughing matter.”

For some its serious business, for others, it’s more of a minor inconvenience, particularly the possibly of losing the coveted “2-0-4”.

“This is Manitoba, we have one area code and if we lose it then we’re not in Manitoba anymore,” exclaimed one Winnipegger.

But it’s a sign of the times. By the end of the year almost every province will have at least two area codes. Ontario has 13. But unlike other jurisdictions, where area codes often apply to where the user lives, the “4-3-1” will simply be given to new users. Meaning you could end up with that area code in Thompson, Winnipeg, or Minnedosa.