What action must be taken if pesticide drift occurs during application?

In the event of pesticide drift during application, the most appropriate action is to stop the application and assess the situation. This is crucial for several reasons.

First, stopping the application allows the operator to evaluate the extent of the drift, the affected area, and any potential risks to non-target organisms, such as humans, wildlife, and beneficial insects. It also provides an opportunity to check for compliance with safety regulations and assess potential environmental impacts.

Additionally, assessing the situation helps determine the next steps to mitigate any issues caused by the drift, such as implementing remedial actions or reporting the incident to the appropriate authorities. This proactive approach is vital for maintaining safety and regulatory compliance in pesticide application practices.

Continuing to spray (as suggested in one of the other options) could exacerbate the drift and increase the potential harm to nearby areas or populations, while changing the application technique without understanding the current situation may not address the immediate risks involved. Alerting the local authority may be necessary later, but the immediate priority should be to cease application and analyze the circumstances.