Handbook on emergencies to be sent to every household

The Government will launch a handbook on Monday advising people on how best to deal with large scale emergencies.

The booklet is being published after research revealed that most people think the country is not well prepared for major disasters.

'Preparing for Emergencies' will be launched by Taoiseach Bertie Ahern and Minister for Defence Willie O' Dea in Dublin.

Nearly 2 million copies of the booklet will then be distributed to every household in the country.

It will outline the Government's plans on how best to deal with nuclear incidents, chemical spills, major fires and accidents at sea.