Criting Public Service Announcements
Reprinted with permission from the Texas Commission on Alcohol and Drug Abuse (TCADA)
Tips for writing public service announcements:Submit announcements to the Public Service Director as far in advance as possible, but no less than 10 days in advance. Make sure releses are legible and on 8 1/2 X 11" paper. Include all facts -- the who, what, when, where and why of your event. Be sure to give specific starting and ending dates. Use organization letterhead and put a contact name, address and telephone number on each release. Contact the Public Service Director at each station to ascertain their specifications regarding PSAs. Stick to the facts. Avoid superlatives, over-enthusiasm and acronyms or nicknames the general public may not be familiar with. Include a telephone number where people can get more information about your event. Because this number will be used on the air, indicate any time restrictions.Sample Public Service AnnouncementsFrom: Max Powers Red Ribbon Committee What are you willing to do to create a drug-free Iowa? The Red Ribbon Committee of ___(city)___ invites you to support Red Ribbon Week by attending a Health Fair on Saturday, October 27, at the city park from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Come to the park to get your red ribbon and participate in fun-filled, drug-free activities. For more information Want to protect your children from drugs? October 23 - 31 is Red Ribbon Week in Iowa – a time to show your support for creating a drug-free community. Surveys show that children whose parents warn them about the dangers of alcohol and other drugs are less likely to use them. Talk to your child about drugs today, and pin on a red ribbon to demonstrate your commitment to supporting a drug-free lifestyle. For more information, contact ABC Counseling Center at 123-1234.