Which is an important step to take immediately after a pesticide spill?

The immediate action to take after a pesticide spill is to control the spill. This step is crucial because it minimizes the potential spread and impact of the pesticide on the surrounding environment. By containing the spill quickly, you can prevent further contamination of soil, water sources, and air, which is essential for protecting human health, wildlife, and the ecosystem.

Controlling the spill may involve using absorbent materials to soak up liquid pesticides or erecting barriers to stop the spread of the chemical. Quick action helps reduce the risk of the pesticide reaching groundwater or being washed away by rainfall or surface runoff.

Other steps, such as informing local wildlife authorities or monitoring groundwater levels, may be necessary but are secondary to the immediate need to manage the spill effectively. Conducting a risk assessment is also important but comes after ensuring that the spill is contained to prevent any further environmental hazard.