What is an essential first step after realizing pesticide exposure has occurred?

Recognizing pesticide exposure is critical, and the first essential step is to evaluate the situation for possible secondary risks. This involves assessing the environment and surrounding conditions to ensure that neither the individual nor others nearby are at risk of further exposure or harm. By understanding the potential hazards, such as lingering chemicals in the area, wind direction, or the presence of highly susceptible individuals (like children or pets), appropriate safety measures can be taken to mitigate these risks.

Evaluating the situation prevents escalation of the incident and ensures that help can be sought or first aid applied safely. It is crucial to ensure that any rescuer or bystander remains safe while responding to the incident, as any rushed actions without assessment can lead to additional exposure or accidents.