How do I make a bootable copy of my iMac factory discs?

Hello There, After reading all the horror stories about iMacs being in serious trouble if they don't have their original factory discs I would like to make bootable, working copies of mine in case the originals get damaged. I know you are supposed to use disk Utility for this (but I lost my nerve when I was prompted to make choices I didn't understand e.g read write etc.). Can some one give me an idiots step by step guide on how to do it. Thanks a lot.

A google search for this turned up a solution from our very own a brody: How to make a boot disk. 
mrtotes

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