What should you do if you encounter a pesticide spill?

In the event of a pesticide spill, following the label's cleanup instructions is the most important step to ensure safety and effectiveness in handling the situation. Pesticide labels are designed to provide specific guidance on how to manage spills, including necessary personal protective equipment, containment measures, and proper disposal methods. These instructions are tailored to the specific product, taking into account its chemical properties and potential hazards.

Adhering to the label instructions helps to minimize environmental contamination, reduce health risks to yourself and others, and ensures compliance with regulatory requirements. Having a clear protocol to follow in such situations is crucial for effective pesticide management.

Other options, such as running away or leaving the spill for someone else, do not address the immediate need for action and can potentially lead to more significant problems, including harm to human health or the environment. Keeping bystanders nearby, on the other hand, could pose safety risks if they are not trained or informed about how to handle the situation appropriately. Therefore, the correct approach is to carefully follow the instructions provided on the pesticide label for an effective and safe response to a spill.