Leave it to the federal government to offer suggestions about how to complain effectively.

The tips listed on the Federal Citizen Information Center's Consumer Action site include the following, in bold letters:

"Remain calm." "Don't use an angry, threatening or sarcastic tone." "State exactly what you want done about the problem." "Document each step, and keep copies."

A sample complaint letter features such temperate words as "unfortunately" and "disappointed." Also: Promise to await a reply before taking your gripe to a third party.

Then there's the crucial element that applies to all effective complaints, including those of you who contact Whistleblower: Save your records!