10 ways to have a stress-free Election Day

1.  Take a drink/water with you The voting process will entail accreditation before real voting, which could take some hours starts. The whole process could be exhausting and you may get dehydrated. It is very important that all voters go with a drink. We are in the dry season when the weather can be uncomfortably […]

1.  Take a drink/water with you

The voting process will entail accreditation before real voting, which could take some hours starts. The whole process could be exhausting and you may get dehydrated. It is very important that all voters go with a drink. We are in the dry season when the weather can be uncomfortably hot. Water is most suitable.

2. Wear sunglasses

The weather is and since we would be standing in the sun for hours to cast our votes, there is a need to protect our eyes. When it comes to sunglasses, we all know that there are many benefits of wearing them, especially since they protect our eyes from damaging radiation and ultra-violet rays.

3. Flat and comfortable shoes

Just like clothes, the shoes we wear that day should be comfortable. There is no point wearing high heels or boots. Sandals or light sports shoes will do just fine, or even flip-flops, commonly called slippers. They are, simply, practical for standing in line for extended periods.

4. Dress comfortably

The type of clothing we wear is very important. It is going to be a stressful day, so voters need to make sure that they wear comfortable clothes. The watchword shouldn’t be trendiness or glamour, but comfort. Jeans and a cotton shirt or blouse would do. Jewellery should be a definite no-no.

5. Foldable chair

Standing for long is a strong possibility on Election Day. It is only logical for voters to go with a mat or a foldable chair to the polling booth as standing for long under the sun will not be healthy, especially for the elderly.  Don’t forget an umbrella, either, as it’ll protect you from the sun.

6. Avoid taking children to the polling units

Most voters tend to make the mistake of dragging children to polling booths. If you are a nursing mother, make arrangements for your baby to be kept at home under the supervision of a nanny, sister or neighbour. Children cause a lot of distraction and do not understand the dynamics of the whole scenario before them. And who can blame them? The election are boring subject to youngsters. Besides, it’s safer to keep them away.

7. Grab a book or magazine

Since most voters will be spending most of their time at the polling booths, it is only wise for them to take along with them a book or magazine as reading will help while away time.

8. Listen to music

If there is no book, you can opt for music, especially on a fully-charged phone, so remember to charge overnight. Listening to music or other recordings on your phone can make a huge difference.

9. Food or snacks

Packed food or snacks should be a priority for most voters. Getting something reasonable to eat will not come easily at polling booths and most shops or restaurants will be closed. People who might be selling within the vicinity of the polling areas will be doing so at exorbitant rates. If you can’t pack some food, then some biscuits or snacks will do. Don’t starve yourself because if you do, you may be too tired.

10. Play games

Games will also come in handy, as will your phone. A game of cards can also be taken to the polling booth to be played with other voters. This way unnecessary arguments s will be avoided while unity in diversity will be encouraged.