Which management practice can help prevent groundwater contamination?

Securing containers to prevent spills is an essential management practice that directly helps in preventing groundwater contamination. When containers holding pesticides are not properly secured, they are at risk of tipping over, leaking, or spilling. These spills can occur due to factors such as transportation, handling, or even environmental conditions. If pesticides escape into the environment, they can infiltrate the soil and eventually reach groundwater sources, which poses significant risks to water quality and public health. Therefore, ensuring that containers are properly secured reduces the likelihood of accidental releases of hazardous substances, thereby protecting groundwater resources from contamination.

The other options do not contribute positively to preventing groundwater contamination. Mixing pesticides without protective gear could increase the risk to the applicator but does not address the environmental impact on groundwater. Storing pesticides in cardboard boxes provides inadequate protection and can lead to deterioration or spills, especially if exposed to moisture or pests. Using gravity to mix solutions may imply a lack of control, which can also lead to spills or accidental releases, rather than promoting safety and prevention of contamination.