Election day is tomorrow, and by all accounts, voter turnout will be at an all-time high. And with a record turnout comes the likelihood that many polling places will have long lines and wait times to vote. So in today’s blog, we’re going to share some tips for keeping your feet and ankles healthy if you expect to be standing for an extended period of time.
Avoiding Foot Injuries On Election Day
The most obvious tip for avoiding the lines and preventing the need to be on your feet for hours is to vote with an absentee ballot, but it’s too late to late for that now. Even so, there are ways you can protect your feet if you’ll be heading to the polls tomorrow. Here are some of our tips.
1. Shoe Smarts – Make sure that you wear a comfortable and supportive pair of shoes to the polling place. You may be standing for hours, so you’re going to want to ensure your feet are protected. This may sound obvious, but many voters head to the polls on their way home from work. If you’re in your work boots or heels because you wear them for work, make sure you pack a different pair to change into if you are headed to the polls after work. Don’t get caught in a long line in unsupportive shoes.
2. Avoid Rush Hour – The polls are typically the busiest between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. as many voters try to vote after work. These time periods will have the longest lines and may require you to stand in line longer in order to vote. Try to head to the polls at non-peak times, like early in the morning before work or after 7 p.m., because if you’re in line by 8 p.m., you’re allowed to cast your vote. Lunch times can also see a spike in turnout, so vote early or late while trying to avoid peak turnout time.
3. Folding Chair – If you’ve voted in the past and know that it’s typically a long process at your voting location, consider throwing a folding chair in the trunk of your car. If it turns out you need it, you can run to your car and grab it. This way you can avoid an extended period of time on you feet by sitting for a while when time permits.
4. Mask Up – Finally, while this tip won’t help you avoid foot or ankle injuries, it does keep your health and the health of others in mind. Masks may or may not be required at your polling location, but it’s strongly advised that you wear one to help reduce the transmission of the coronavirus. COVID-19 is still a major issue in the US, and we all need to do our part to help us slow the spread. Wearing a mask and practicing safe social distancing can help with this, especially during a time when many people will be gathering in relatively small indoor locations. Please help yourself and others stay safe this election!