10/06/2021
This may affect your Life Alert, Medical Monitoring Device or other Safety Device as well as your ability to dial stored phone numbers. Let us know if you need assistance. We're here to help!
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR TELEPHONE DIALING PROCEDURE
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has adopted 988 as a new three-digit number to be used nationwide to reach the National Su***de Prevention and Mental Health Crisis Lifeline.
In order for 988 to work in your area code, 10 digit local dialing must first be implemented. Beginning October 24, 2021, you MUST dial 10 digits (area code+ telephone number) for all local calls. On and after this date, local calls dialed with only 7-digits may not be completed and a recording will inform you that your call cannot be completed as dialed. You must hang up and dial again using the area code and the 7-digit number.
Action to Start Now:
All services, automatic dialing equipment or other types of equipment that are programmed to dial 7-digit numbers will need to be reprogrammed to use the new dialing procedures. This should be completed by October 24th.
Equipment you may need to reprogram:
Life safety systems
Alarm/Security systems
Call Forwarding
Medical monitoring devices
Fax machines
Voicemail
Ankle monitors
PBXs
Fax machines
Internet dial-up numbers
Speed dialers
Call forwarding settings
Voicemail services
Stored telephone numbers in contacts lists in wireless or cordless phones
Be sure to check your personal stationery, personal checks, contact information, personal/pet ID tags and other such items.
Beginning July 16, 2022, dialing “988” will route your call to the National Su***de Prevention and Mental Health Crisis Lifeline. Customers must continue to dial 1-800-273-TALK to reach the Lifeline until July 16, 2022.
You can visit the FCC website at www.fcc.gov/su***de-prevention-hotline.
Thank you,
Southeast Home Care Services
On July 16, 2020, the FCC adopted rules to establish 988 as the new, nationwide, 3-digit phone number for Americans in crisis to connect with su***de prevention and mental health crisis counselors.