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First Aid for Pesticide Exposure

In a pesticide exposure, the right first aid depends on the product and the type of exposure. This site does not give treatment steps. It tells you where to find them and how to prepare.

Why does this site not list first aid steps?

The correct response to an exposure depends on which product it was, whether it touched the skin, reached the eyes, was breathed in or swallowed and who was affected. Incorrect steps can make things worse, so steps from a general article are not a safe substitute for official instructions.

Official guidance comes from the product label, poison specialists, emergency responders and medical professionals. Training in first aid is available through organizations such as the American Red Cross.

Home remedies and advice passed along by relatives can be wrong or harmful. If someone suggests a step that is not on the label or from a poison specialist, check it before acting.

What should I do first?

Call 911 in an emergency, such as when a person is unconscious, having trouble breathing, having seizures or is badly injured. Stay with the person if it is safe to do so, and keep others away from the hazard.

Do not put yourself at risk. If the area is contaminated, wait for trained responders rather than entering without protection.

If clothing is soaked, the label and poison specialists will say what to do about it. Do not guess, and do not let anyone handle contaminated items without protection.

• Keep others away from the hazard.
• Stay with the person if it is safe.
• Do not enter a contaminated area without protection.

Where do I find the instructions?

Every pesticide label has a statement of practical treatment, often under a first aid heading. It is written for that product. Read it before you need it, and know where the label is kept.

Poison specialists provide advice by phone. In the United States, the Poison Help line is listed on the official site of America's Poison Centers. Do not guess at the number; check the official site and post it at your mixing area.

• Label first aid statement
• Poison Help line
• 911 for emergencies
• Your health provider afterward

How can I prepare ahead of time?

Make a plan in advance. Post the emergency numbers, keep labels and safety data sheets where responders can reach them and stock the supplies that the label and your educator recommend, such as clean water for the exposure types mentioned. Ask a trainer to tell you what belongs in a kit for your products.

Walk through who calls, who stays with the person and who meets responders at the farm gate. Make sure someone can give clear directions to your location.

Check your kit and numbers at the start of each season. Phone numbers change, supplies expire and workers come and go. A quick review prevents outdated information.

What information will responders ask for?

They will usually ask for the product name and registration information, how the person was exposed, when it happened, the person's age and approximate size, any symptoms and anything already done. Have this ready, with the label if possible.

Write down the time and keep it with the label. If you are not the one calling, make sure the caller knows these details.

If the person is a child, say so at once. Poison specialists will want to know the age and weight, and the response may differ.

• Product name and registration information
• How and when exposure occurred
• Age and approximate size of the person
• Symptoms noticed so far

Should I take someone to the clinic?

Follow the advice of poison specialists and responders. Even if the person seems fine, a health provider should be told about the exposure, since some effects appear later. Bring the label or a photo of it.

Do not drive someone who is unwell if you can call for help. Ask the dispatcher or poison specialist what to do.

• Follow the advice of poison specialists.
• Tell the clinic about the exposure.
• Bring the label or a photo of it.

How can I learn first aid properly?

Take a recognized first aid and CPR course through the American Red Cross or another established provider. Ask your extension office or AgriSafe about farm-specific safety and chemical training.

Hands-on training builds confidence and shows you what to do in a calm setting.

Ask whether your insurer or employer pays for training, and consider holding a session for everyone who works on your farm, including family.

Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the Farm Safety Editorial Team. See our editorial policy.