Starting Oct. 24, begin all local calls with 670

Starting Oct. 24, 2021, the “670” area code must be dialed to complete all calls in the CNMI. Add 670 to all your saved contacts to make sure all your important calls go through.

This developed soon after Federal Communications Commission decided that, effective July next year, “988” is designated as the new phone number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Similar to calling 911 for emergency personnel, callers would need to only dial “988” to reach the suicide prevention lifeline. Right now, one would need to dial 1-800-273-8255 to reach the suicide prevention lifeline. The new method ensures that calls to 988 will reach the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Crisis Center for urgent mental health needs.

In line with this, all local phone calls on CNMI must include the 670-area code. Go through your contact list and add “670” in the beginning of seven-digit phone numbers in the CNMI. (PR)