What should be done immediately after a fertilizer spill?

Cleaning up a fertilizer spill immediately is essential to prevent environmental contamination and protect water sources. Fertilizers often contain nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus, which can runoff into nearby waterways, leading to nutrient pollution and subsequent issues like algal blooms. Immediate clean-up minimizes the risk of these negative environmental impacts.

Moreover, quick action helps ensure the safety of both the applicators and the general public. Fertilizer spills can create hazards due to the potential for slipping, or inhaling dust and vapors, especially if the spill occurs in a populated area. Therefore, prompt clean-up is crucial for managing both public safety and environmental health effectively.

While leaving it to degrade naturally, covering it with soil, or reporting it to authorities may seem viable options, they do not address the immediate risks posed by a fertilizer spill. Each of these actions could lead to further complications and should not be prioritized over immediate clean-up.