Dialing Back: A Comprehensive Guide on How to Use a Pay Phone in the 21st Century
In a world dominated by smartphones and instant communication, the humble pay phone might seem like a relic of the past. However, these public telephones still exist, serving as a vital lifeline in emergencies, areas with poor cell service, or for those who simply prefer a more anonymous way to connect. While most people under the age of 30 have likely never used one, understanding how to operate a pay phone is a valuable skill. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, step-by-step, ensuring you’re ready to make a call whenever the need arises.
## Why Learn to Use a Pay Phone?
Before diving into the how-to, let’s consider why learning to use a pay phone is still relevant:
* **Emergencies:** In situations where your cell phone is dead, lost, or there’s no signal, a pay phone can be a lifesaver for contacting emergency services.
* **Privacy:** Pay phones offer a level of anonymity that smartphones don’t. If you need to make a call without being tracked, a pay phone is a viable option.
* **Accessibility:** Not everyone owns a smartphone. Pay phones provide access to communication for those without personal devices.
* **Backup Communication:** During natural disasters or widespread power outages, cell networks can become overloaded or fail. Pay phones often remain operational, providing a crucial means of communication.
* **Nostalgia and Novelty:** For some, using a pay phone is a nostalgic experience, a step back in time to a simpler era. It can also be a fun and unique experience for younger generations who have only known smartphones.
## Finding a Pay Phone
The first challenge is locating a pay phone. They are becoming increasingly rare, but here’s where you might find them:
* **Airports:** Airports often have pay phones available for travelers.
* **Train Stations:** Similar to airports, train stations sometimes have pay phones for passengers.
* **Bus Depots:** Bus stations are another potential location for finding pay phones.
* **Hospitals:** Some hospitals maintain pay phones for patients and visitors.
* **Hotels:** Older hotels, especially those in less affluent areas, may still have pay phones in their lobbies.
* **Convenience Stores and Gas Stations:** While less common than in the past, some convenience stores and gas stations still have pay phones outside.
* **Public Transportation Hubs:** Look near subway entrances, bus stops, and other public transportation hubs.
* **Rural Areas:** Pay phones are often more prevalent in rural areas where cell service may be limited.
* **Military Bases:** Pay phones are often available on military bases for service members.
**Online Directories:** While not always up-to-date, some online directories still attempt to list pay phone locations. Search for “pay phone locator” or “public phone directory” online.
**Pro Tip:** When you find a pay phone, check its condition before attempting to use it. Make sure the handset is intact, the buttons are functional, and the coin slots are clear of debris.
## Understanding Pay Phone Components
Familiarizing yourself with the basic components of a pay phone is essential for using it effectively:
* **Handset:** The part you hold to your ear and speak into. Ensure it’s securely attached to the phone.
* **Dial Pad:** The keypad used to enter phone numbers. It typically has the standard 12 keys (0-9, *, and #).
* **Coin Slots:** The slots for inserting coins to pay for the call. There are usually separate slots for different denominations (e.g., nickels, dimes, quarters).
* **Coin Return:** A slot or lever that returns unused coins or change after the call is completed or if the call fails.
* **Display Screen (Optional):** Some newer pay phones have a small display screen that shows call progress, instructions, or other information.
* **Instructions:** Pay phones often have instructions printed on or near the phone itself, explaining how to make a call and the cost.
* **Directory (Optional):** Some pay phones, especially older ones, may have a physical phone book or directory nearby.
## Making a Local Call
Making a local call on a pay phone generally follows these steps:
1. **Pick Up the Handset:** Lift the handset from its cradle. You should hear a dial tone, indicating that the phone is ready to use. If you don’t hear a dial tone, try pressing the “Talk” button (if there is one) or checking for any visible damage to the phone.
2. **Deposit Coins (If Required):** Many local calls require an initial deposit. Check the instructions on the phone to determine the required amount. It’s usually 25-50 cents. Insert the coins into the appropriate slots. The phone may make a sound or display a message confirming that the coins have been accepted.
* **Coin Amounts:** It is best to have a variety of coins to make calls. Quarters are usually a must. Sometimes the phones also accept dimes and nickels.
3. **Dial the Number:** Enter the seven-digit or ten-digit phone number you wish to call using the dial pad. Dial carefully to avoid making mistakes.
4. **Wait for the Connection:** After dialing, wait for the call to connect. You may hear ringing or a busy signal.
5. **Speak:** Once the call connects, speak into the handset to communicate with the other party.
6. **End the Call:** When you’re finished, hang up the handset. Any unused coins should be returned to you through the coin return slot.
**Important Note:** Some pay phones allow you to dial a local number first and then deposit coins once the call connects. This prevents you from wasting money if the line is busy or the call is not answered. Check the instructions on the phone to see if this option is available.
## Making a Long-Distance Call
Making a long-distance call on a pay phone is slightly more complex than making a local call. You’ll typically need to use a calling card or dial an access code.
**Option 1: Using a Calling Card**
1. **Pick Up the Handset:** Lift the handset and listen for the dial tone.
2. **Dial the Access Number:** Dial the toll-free access number provided on your calling card. This number will connect you to the calling card company’s system.
3. **Enter Your PIN:** Follow the voice prompts to enter your personal identification number (PIN) from your calling card.
4. **Dial the Destination Number:** Enter the phone number you wish to call, including the area code and country code if necessary.
5. **Speak:** Once the call connects, speak into the handset.
6. **End the Call:** Hang up the handset when you’re finished.
**Option 2: Dialing an Access Code (e.g., 1010-XXX)**
Some pay phones allow you to dial a long-distance access code (like 1010-XXX, where XXX is a three-digit code) followed by the destination number. This allows you to use a specific long-distance carrier.
1. **Pick Up the Handset:** Lift the handset and listen for the dial tone.
2. **Dial the Access Code:** Dial the desired access code (e.g., 1010-220 for AT&T). These codes are sometimes posted near the phone.
3. **Dial the Destination Number:** Enter the phone number you wish to call, including the area code and country code if necessary.
4. **Deposit Coins (If Required):** The phone may prompt you to deposit coins to pay for the call. Follow the instructions on the phone or listen to the voice prompts.
5. **Speak:** Once the call connects, speak into the handset.
6. **End the Call:** Hang up the handset when you’re finished.
**Option 3: Collect Call**
A collect call lets the person you are calling pay for the call. Here is how to make one:
1. **Pick up the handset**
2. **Dial “0”** This will connect you with the operator.
3. **Tell the operator you want to make a collect call.** Provide the number you wish to call and your name.
4. **The operator will connect to the person you are calling and ask if they accept the charges.** If the person accepts, the call will be connected.
**Important Considerations for Long-Distance Calls:**
* **Calling Cards:** Ensure your calling card has sufficient funds before making the call.
* **Access Codes:** Be aware of the rates associated with the access code you are using. Some access codes can be more expensive than others.
* **International Calls:** Making international calls from a pay phone can be very expensive. Consider using a calling card specifically designed for international calls.
## Making a Toll-Free Call (e.g., 800, 888, 877, 866, 855 Numbers)
Toll-free numbers are generally free to call from pay phones, but some pay phone operators may charge a small fee for connecting to a toll-free number. Here’s how to make a toll-free call:
1. **Pick Up the Handset:** Lift the handset and listen for the dial tone.
2. **Dial the Toll-Free Number:** Enter the toll-free number (e.g., 800-XXX-XXXX). Some toll-free numbers may require you to dial “1” before the number.
3. **Listen for Instructions:** Follow any voice prompts or instructions provided by the toll-free number’s system.
4. **Speak:** Once the call connects, speak into the handset.
5. **End the Call:** Hang up the handset when you’re finished.
**Important Note:** Some pay phone operators may require you to deposit a coin or two before connecting to a toll-free number. If this is the case, the phone will usually indicate this with a message or a voice prompt.
## Emergency Calls (911)
In most areas, you can dial 911 for emergency services from a pay phone without inserting any coins. However, it’s essential to know the procedure in case of an emergency:
1. **Pick Up the Handset:** Lift the handset.
2. **Dial 911:** Enter 911 on the dial pad.
3. **Speak Clearly:** Clearly and calmly explain the nature of the emergency and your location to the dispatcher. Provide as much detail as possible.
4. **Follow Instructions:** Follow any instructions provided by the dispatcher.
5. **Stay on the Line:** Do not hang up until the dispatcher tells you to do so.
**Important Considerations for Emergency Calls:**
* **Location:** Be prepared to provide your location as accurately as possible. Look for street signs, building numbers, or other landmarks.
* **Clarity:** Speak clearly and calmly to ensure the dispatcher understands you.
* **Stay Calm:** Try to remain calm, even in a stressful situation.
## Troubleshooting Common Pay Phone Problems
Even with the best instructions, you might encounter problems when using a pay phone. Here are some common issues and how to troubleshoot them:
* **No Dial Tone:**
* **Check the Handset:** Make sure the handset is securely attached to the phone.
* **Look for Damage:** Inspect the phone for any visible damage to the handset, cord, or dial pad.
* **Try Another Phone:** If possible, try using another pay phone in the area.
* **Report the Problem:** If the phone is clearly out of service, report the problem to the pay phone operator (if contact information is available).
* **Coins Not Accepted:**
* **Use Correct Denomination:** Make sure you are using the correct denomination of coins (usually quarters, dimes, and nickels).
* **Check Coin Slots:** Ensure the coin slots are clear of debris or obstructions.
* **Insert Coins Slowly:** Insert coins one at a time, allowing the phone to register each coin.
* **Try Different Coins:** Try using different coins, as some coins may be damaged or worn.
* **Call Not Connecting:**
* **Dial Correctly:** Make sure you are dialing the number correctly, including the area code.
* **Check for Busy Signal:** If you hear a busy signal, try calling again later.
* **Insufficient Funds:** If you are making a long-distance call, ensure you have sufficient funds on your calling card or have deposited enough coins.
* **Network Issues:** There may be network issues affecting the pay phone. Try again later or use a different phone.
* **No Coin Return:**
* **Check Coin Return Slot:** Ensure the coin return slot is clear of debris.
* **Press Coin Return Button/Lever:** If the phone has a coin return button or lever, try pressing or pulling it.
* **Contact Operator:** If you are unable to retrieve your coins, contact the pay phone operator for assistance.
## Tips for Using Pay Phones Effectively
* **Carry Coins:** Always carry a small amount of change (quarters, dimes, and nickels) with you, just in case you need to use a pay phone.
* **Know Your Numbers:** Keep a list of important phone numbers (e.g., family, friends, emergency contacts) with you, either on paper or memorized.
* **Check the Instructions:** Before making a call, take a moment to read the instructions on the pay phone.
* **Speak Clearly:** Speak clearly and loudly into the handset, especially in noisy environments.
* **Be Aware of Your Surroundings:** Pay attention to your surroundings and be aware of your personal safety when using a pay phone, especially at night.
* **Report Malfunctions:** If you encounter a malfunctioning pay phone, report it to the operator or the relevant authorities.
* **Use a Protective Case:** If you expect to use a pay phone in unsanitary areas, a protective case for the handset can be useful.
## The Future of Pay Phones
While pay phones may seem like a dying breed, they continue to serve a purpose in certain situations. Some companies are exploring innovative ways to revitalize pay phones, such as incorporating Wi-Fi hotspots, charging stations, and digital advertising displays.
It’s possible that pay phones will evolve into multi-functional communication hubs that offer a range of services beyond basic phone calls. Regardless of their future form, understanding how to use a pay phone remains a valuable skill, providing a reliable backup communication option in an increasingly connected world.
In conclusion, while smartphones dominate modern communication, the pay phone offers a valuable alternative in specific situations. Knowing how to use one can provide a sense of security and independence, especially in emergencies or when other communication methods are unavailable. So, the next time you see a pay phone, take a moment to appreciate its history and functionality. You never know when you might need to use it!
## Additional Resources
* **Payphone Project:** A website dedicated to documenting and preserving pay phone history.
* **Local Telephone Companies:** Contact your local telephone company for information about pay phone locations and services in your area.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to use a pay phone. Remember to practice using a pay phone whenever you have the opportunity, so you’ll be prepared when you need one.