Which is recommended action to take in the event of a pesticide fire?

• A. Construct berms to contain contaminated runoff water.
• B. Enter the storage facility and remove as much pesticide as possible.
• C. Try to extinguish the fire before calling 911.
• D. Use water to wash down the area immediately.

Answer: (A)

When a pesticide fire occurs, the priority is safety and preventing environmental contamination. The best action is to quickly establish physical containment, such as berms or dikes, to capture and keep contaminated runoff from spreading to drains, soil, or nearby water bodies. This makes it much easier to manage cleanup and protects people, wildlife, and the ecosystem while professionals handle suppression and disposal.

Entering the burning storage area to remove pesticide is extremely dangerous due to toxic fumes, heat, and the potential for rapid flare-ups. Trying to extinguish the fire yourself before calling emergency services can delay critical help and put you at risk. Using water to wash down the area immediately would spread the pesticide, create larger runoff, and worsen environmental contamination.