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Calling and Displaying Numbers

  • The game begins with the first called letter and number of a randomly drawn or selected bingo number.
  • Except for bar bingo, the caller must make sure that the majority of the players are able to see the selected letter and number during the game. When a flashboard is used, light the corresponding letter and number after a number is called out.
  • In a bingo game with a pattern that does not require all available bingo numbers, the caller must announce before the game begins that selected bingo numbers not pertaining to the pattern will not be called. However, the bingo balls must be displayed. For example, a pattern called “small round robin” does not include any numbers in the winning pattern from the “B” and “O” columns. The caller does not have to call out the drawn “B” and “O” numbers, but they must be displayed.

    Q. If I do not have to call bingo numbers that are not part of the pattern in play and the players must bingo within 45 numbers, are those uncalled bingo numbers counted as part of the 45 numbers?

    A. An organization has the option of counting all bingo numbers drawn or selected in its limited ball count or just counting those which are contained in the predetermined pattern. The method an organization uses must be clearly noted in the bingo program, or house rules if not included in the bingo program, and verbally stated to players before the start of the game.

  • Once drawn, bingo balls must not be returned to the receptacle until after the game or continuation game ends.
  • If the wrong letter or number is called, the caller must announce that an error has been made and call the correct letter or number. Correct the flashboard, if used, and continue with the game.
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