Area code requirement to begin Oct. 24

OLYMPIA - All phone calls in Whitman County are going to need all 10-digits, rather than the traditional seven.

Landline phone companies are making the switch on Oct. 24.

Some landline companies are still allowing calls without the area code.

"This change to 10-digit dialing in Eastern Washington's 509 area code is a first step toward ensuring that everyone in the country will be able to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline using the three-digit code of 988 that launches in 2022," said a Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (WUTC) spokesperson.

Using the new area code included phone numbers does not cost more.

"Important safety and security equipment such as medical alert devices and alarm and security systems must be programmed to use 10-digit dialing," said the WUTC spokesperson. "While many systems use 10-digit dialing by default, some older equipment may still use seven-digits. Customers should contact their medical alert or security provider if they are not sure whether they need to reprogram their equipment."

In 2017, all Western Washington area codes switched to 10-digit dialing, leaving 509 as the only area code in the state that hasn't made the change.