Fact Sheets and Other Pesticide Information

Remember Pesticides When Preparing for Storms and Flooding

Farmers, businesses and homeowners need to consider any pesticides they have stored when they prepare for anticipated flooding. In the rush to prepare for the imminent arrival of a storm, many people overlook the potential complications that can arise if toxic materials fall victim to high winds and flood waters. Cardboard or paper containers may become soggy and may be punctured, and partially empty drums or jugs may be swept away with a flood. As a result, water supplies may become polluted and pesticide containers may present a hazard to people who find them.

Preparing for an imminent storm

• Try to move chemicals to higher ground. If that isn't possible, you may be able to minimize water damage by moving chemicals off floors and from lower shelves to a higher, but appropriately safe, location in the building or elsewhere on site.
• Shelving areas should be anchored to prevent them from tipping over from wind or water movement through the building. Turn off the building's electricity; plug drains leading from the building if you think water will enter the building through them or if you think pesticides can escape through them to the environment. If plugging drains will make the flooding in the building worse, move the pesticides to another location. If the drains lead to a sump, make sure the sump will not become buoyant and lead to building damage.
• Make sure the building is well-marked to let authorities know it is a chemical storage building, and make sure the building is well-secured and locked prior to evacuation.

Some actions to take after the storm

• Check the building for water and wind damage, for fumes, and for poisonous snakes and harmful insects before entering.
• If the building is damaged, don't enter it without protective clothing and equipment.
• If you know there are damaged containers in the building, get help from local authorities. Do not enter the building.
• If containers have been washed or blown out of the building, restrict entry to the affected area to prevent exposure to humans and animals. Get help to clean up the materials to prevent further pollution.
• Be prepared to contact authorities to report spilled quantities of chemicals and to request assistance. For major spills, Illinois law requires that emergency notification be made to the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA). They in turn notify the appropriate agencies for response. Their 24-hour emergency hotline number is (800) 782-7860. In addition, you may call the Illinois Department of Agriculture (800-641-3934) for guidance.

Source: Bruce Paulsrud and Philip Nixon, University of Illinois Extension Pesticide Applicator Training Program, 4/01. Adapted from Mike Weaver and Stewart MacInnis, Virginia Cooperative Extension news release, 8/25/98.