Public Service Announcements (PSAs) are short, "non-commercial" announcements prepared to provide information to the public. A non-commercial announcement contains information that benefits its intended audience, rather than the company that created it. For example, a PSA that provides health information differs from an ad that promotes the sale of a health product. Consequently, most PSAs are produced by nonprofit associations, but commercial, for-profit organizations may also use them to promote their nonprofit activities and events.
Free air time (usually 10- to 60-second spots) on television and radio is available to groups such as community associations, advocate groups, nonprofit organizations and for-profit organizations that are promoting their community, nonprofit events with PSAs. TV and radio stations donate this air time to meet the Federal Communications Commission's public service requirements.
PSAs are used by organizations to:
- Publicize community events.
- Provide health and safety tips.
- Assist in fund raising efforts.
- Inform and influence public opinion.
PSA messages:
- Must contain information that is beneficial to the community.
- Should not include controversial or self-serving material.
Many radio and TV stations have guidelines for acceptance and production of PSAs. Always send your news in their requested format.
Radio PSAs
Television PSAs
Online Resources
The National Association of Broadcasters publishes a few books on communicating effectively with the media.
