What To Do If Exposed to Pesticides?

If you think you have been exposed to pesticides, the first thing to remember is that pesticide exposure can be treated.

Symptoms of Exposure
Symptoms of pesticide exposure often mimic those of the common cold or flu. Although this is true, it is important to note when symptoms develop and how they may be related to the application of chemicals in the home, nearby agricultural applications, etc.

Acute, or short term, symptoms of exposure often develop within the first few hours of exposure. Symptoms can include: dizziness and/or nausea, sore throat, itchy eyes, nose and throat, headache, rashes, excessive sweating or salivation, watery eyes, and stomach cramps.

What To Do If You Think You've Been Exposed

Step 1: Call your doctor and report your exposure.

Step 2: Call your County Agricultural Commissioner and report the incident. If homes pesticides are involved, call the Poison Control Center. Let the CAC know the following:

-where you live or where you were during the incident
-the time of suspected exposure and weather conditions
-relationship to nearby agricultural lands
-unusual odors or symptoms

Ask for an investigation by the CAC and ask them to call you back to report their findings. Calls can be made anonymously, a critical point for farmworkers who may feel threatened by reporting a violation.

Step 3: Contact the Central Coast Environmental Health Project at (805) 963-1622 or cardenas@edcnet.org for more information.