What should be the first step if a pesticide spill occurs?

In the event of a pesticide spill, the first step should be to contain the spill to prevent further contamination. This is a critical action because it helps minimize the exposure and spread of the pesticide, which could endanger public health, wildlife, and the environment. Containment involves isolating the spill area, avoiding any methods that may disperse the pesticide, and using absorbent materials or barriers to stop the movement of the pesticide. By focusing on containment first, it sets the stage for a safe and effective cleanup process afterward, ensuring that the situation is managed in an organized and responsible manner.

Other actions, such as calling emergency services, notifying authorities, or beginning cleanup procedures, may be necessary, but they should follow the containment effort. Without containment, these actions could exacerbate the situation by allowing the pesticide to spread further.