FAQ about the media
How do I express my concerns about programming on radio or TV?
If you have seen or heard something on TV or radio that you object to, or you have another type of issue about your broadcasting service, you can make a complaint. Click here http://www.crtc.gc.ca/eng/INFO_SHT/G8.HTM to learn more.
What can I do about false and misleading ads?
You can contact the product manufacturer and the TV station that aired the ads. Canada's Competition Bureau investigates complaints about false and misleading ads. You can call them toll-free at 1-800-348-5358.
Why is an American TV program showing Canadian commercials?
It's called signal substitution. One signal, which is airing the program, is replaced temporarily by a local signal in order to air local ads. For more information, go to Signal substitution - same program, different commercials .
When I watch TV or listen to the radio, I get a fuzzy picture or lots of static. What can I do?
First, make sure your receiving equipment is working properly. Then contact your cable or satellite service provider to talk to them about your signal quality.
If you receive your signals over-the-air, contact the TV and radio stations involved directly. For more information about interference, go to Industry Canada's Consumer Information.
Why do radio or TV ads seem so much louder than the programs?
First of all, it is important to know that you are not going crazy. Very often the commercials ARE louder than the program you are watching - contrary to what your local TV station or provider may tell you. Here's the official word from the CRTC (Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission):
Sometimes when you’re watching TV, a loud commercial message can really startle you. Or maybe you've noticed a big difference in the sound level from one TV channel to another – or even from one program to another.
Loudness can vary for a number of reasons:
- ad production techniques
- contrasting sound levels
- steps involved from creating a TV program to watching it
Two production techniques may be partly responsible for loud commercials; and sometimes, both are used together:
- Audio compression records a commercial’s soundtrack at a constant and maximum loudness level.
- Reshaping sound works on the frequencies you hear. It increases the frequencies that alert your ear, and decreases the frequencies that are considered soothing. The result is a commercial that grabs your attention, but may also sound harsh.
The CRTC says that if you’re having problems with sound levels, tell your TV service provider. Note the date and time you experienced the problem, and which channel and program or commercial you were watching.
For more information, see http://www.crtc.gc.ca/eng/INFO_SHT/G3.HTM
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