If a pesticide spill occurs, what should you do first?

When a pesticide spill occurs, the first course of action is to get the source of the leak under control. This is crucial because stopping the source of the leak prevents further spillage, which could lead to a more significant environmental hazard, increased exposure risk to people, and potential harm to wildlife. Securing the source helps contain the situation and minimizes the potential impact of the pesticide.

After controlling the source, subsequent steps can be taken, such as notifying local authorities, evacuating individuals from the area, and then cleaning the affected zone. However, without addressing the leak first, all other steps might not effectively mitigate the risk. Therefore, prioritizing the control of the leak is essential for ensuring safety and preventing further complications from the spill.