SPENCER, IA (Northwestiowanow) – Spencer Municipal Utilities is preparing customers for a change in how local phone calls are dialed.

Starting Monday, November 17, all SMU telephone customers will be required to use 10-digit dialing, which means the 712 area code must be included when placing local calls.

Amanda Gloyd with SMU, says the change is already available, but will soon be mandatory.

While many states have already made the switch, the 712 area code was previously excluded.

“Despite the change in dialing format, all phone numbers and service areas will remain the same.

Long-distance dialing and three-digit services like 911 and 988 will not be affected.

For more information, customers can contact Spencer Municipal Utilities at 712-580-5800, or visit www.smunet.net.