Why is it important to read the pesticide label before application?

Reading the pesticide label before application is crucial for understanding safety precautions. The label provides essential information on how to handle the pesticide safely, including personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements, first aid instructions in case of exposure, and environmental precautions to avoid contamination. This knowledge is vital for both the applicator's safety and the protection of non-target organisms, including humans, pets, and beneficial wildlife.

While other options may offer information related to the pesticide, they do not directly impact the safe and effective use of the product as much as the safety precautions outlined on the label. Knowing the price or the manufacturer is secondary to ensuring that the application process is safe, effective, and compliant with legal regulations. Similarly, determining weather patterns is something that may influence application timing but doesn’t provide the necessary safety information required before handling the pesticide. Therefore, the emphasis on safety precautions is what makes reading the label a vital step in pesticide application.