A new government leaflet on how to respond to a terror attack urges the public to use their "common sense".

As the Home Office launched its £8 million awareness campaign earlier today, Home Secretary David Blunkett warned people not to panic.

"This is not in response to any specific or heightened threat to the UK," he said. Rather, it is based on research showing that the public wants "to have this information and advice drawn together and made easily available".

All 25 million UK households will receive the 22-page pamphlet, called "Preparing for emergencies what you need to know", over a three-week period from early August. It can also be downloaded in several languages from www.preparingforemergencies.gov.uk .

The booklet also contains practical advice on how to deal with specific emergencies.

If trapped in the debris of a bomb explosion, one should "stay close to a wall and tap on pipes so that rescuers can hear you". If a bomb goes off outside your building, "stay away from windows, lifts and outer doors in case there is a second bomb in the area".

In the event of a chemical, biological or radiological attack, the pamphlet advises people to wait for emergency services to arrive and, if necessary, decontaminate them. This involves showering in soap and water and dressing in new clothes. Should one leave, one could contaminate others and make the incident worse.

In general, people should "go in, stay in, tune in": enter a safe building, stay there until they are told otherwise and tune into their local radio station for updates.

A wide range of experts, including the emergency services, MI5, the Chief Medical Officer and the Emergency Planning Society, compiled the pamphlet. It is supported by all major political parties.

"Public vigilance and co-operation can make a vital contribution," Blunkett said. " People should remain alert but not alarmed. Following the advice in this booklet will ensure we are better able to cope with any emergency."

Be prepared

Have the following ready in case of emergency:
  • A list of useful phone numbers, such as your doctor's and close relatives'
  • Home and car keys
  • Toiletries, sanitary supplies and any regularly prescribed medication
  • A battery radio, with spare batteries
  • A torch with spare batteries, candles and matches
  • A First Aid kit
  • Your mobile phone
  • Cash and credit cards
  • Spare clothes and blankets
  • Bottled water, ready-to-eat food and a tin opener