What is the safest action if a highly toxic pesticide is spilled on your skin?

Washing the affected area immediately with soap and water is the safest and most effective action if a highly toxic pesticide spills on your skin. This response helps to remove the chemical before it can be absorbed into the skin, significantly reducing the risk of systemic exposure and potential health effects. Water serves to dilute the pesticide, while soap is effective in breaking down and removing chemical residues.

Other options, such as wiping it off with a cloth, may inadvertently spread the pesticide to other areas of the skin or reduce the effectiveness of removal. Allowing the substance to dry could lead to further absorption into the skin and increased toxicity. Applying a cream or ointment is not advisable, as these products may trap the pesticide against the skin, enhancing the risk of absorption rather than facilitating its removal. Thus, immediate washing with soap and water is the recommended action for minimizing exposure and protecting health.