What is the first step to take when a pesticide spill occurs?

In the event of a pesticide spill, the first and most crucial step is to control the spill by stopping the leak. Addressing the source of the spill ensures that no further chemicals are released into the environment, which can help minimize exposure risks to both people and the surrounding ecosystem. By stopping the leak, you effectively limit the amount of pesticide that can spread and cause additional harm, allowing for a safer and more manageable cleanup process.

Once the leak is controlled, further actions such as notifying authorities, cleaning the spill, or evacuating the area can be safely taken based on the specific circumstances and the scale of the spill. However, controlling the leak stands out as the priority in any emergency response to mitigate additional risks.