How to Generate a PSA Announcement

Public service announcements are made to make the public aware of a problem, event, product or service. They are usually generated by the person or group that sponsors the event, manufactures the products or that discovered the problem. PSAs are aired by local radio stations and cable companies.

• Determine what you want your PSA to be about and how long it will be. Write out a script and sketch of how you want the PSA to be performed. If you plan to have actors or people in the PSA, ask them to rehearse it several times to make sure it is the way you want it.


• Decide who you marketing the PSA to. This will help you choose the actors, props and way the script is written. For example, if you plan to market your PSA to children, you may want to use young actors, and use scenery and words that are easy for young listeners or viewers to understand.


• Set a budget. If you are performing a filmed PSA, you will need to pay for a filming location, equipment, props and actors. If you are recording an audio PSA, you will need to purchase audio equipment. Setting a budget will insure that you do not spend more money on the PSA than you want or have.


• Contact your local radio station or cable company to set up a date and time for your PSA to go on the air. Some may allow you to do them live, and others will ask that you record the PSA and bring it into the radio or cable office on the day you want it aired.