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(NC) - Having quality consumer information is the best protection you can have in today's marketplace. The Canadian Consumer Handbook put together by Canada's federal, provincial and territorial consumer protection agencies offers a wealth of information. There's information on the differences between proper and improper business procedures, on how to approach banks, insurance companies, utility companies, landlords and many others. It also provides advice on consumer rights, making informed decisions, making a complaint effectively, and protecting yourself from unscrupulous dealers.

Complaining effectively is a skill that the Handbook looks at in full. Consumers should not be afraid to complain, as reputable businesses will be pleased to set matters right. There is information on how to keep track of what you have done to complain and what is the proper line of events that you should follow, from talking to the manager to going to small claims court.

This new Handbook is now available on line. Just visit Consumer Connection's Web site at http://consumer.ic.gc.ca. This is an award-winning Web site developed by the Office of Consumer Affairs of Industry Canada. It provides rapid access to consumer information, powerful tools to cut research time, and many useful links to consumer and other organizations. Canadians can access Consumer Connection from home, the public library, community access points or from Government of Canada, provincial and territorial service outlets. For a variety of information on everything from bank fees, to privacy rights, to the latest scams or frauds, this is the place to go.