The McKean County Voter Registration & Elections office is prepped for one of the busiest days of the year, not only following regular security procedures, but also taking steps in providing pandemic friendly voting locations.

Lisa Pratt, director of elections, explained numerous measures have been taken this year to make sure the voters and poll workers are as safe as possible.

“We have provided for the poll workers to use: cleaning supplies, hand sanitizer, a plexiglass shield, face shields, face masks, tape to mark the floor with safe distances for voters to stand from each other while waiting in line, disposable gloves and some other items,” she said.

When asked if she’s seen an election in the past that’s garnered so much interest, Pratt responded, “I have been with the Elections/Voter Registration office for two presidential elections and they always get the most attention.”

As for mail-in ballots, Pratt said as of Friday, 4,976 had been mailed out, with 3,845 returned.

Pratt also noted that all polling locations will be open on Election day. Additionally the last day a voter may return their voted/absentee mail-in ballot in-person to the Elections office is today between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. Voters must hand deliver their own absentee/mail-in ballot.

Voting in person: When arriving at the polling place, check in with the poll workers. Follow their instructions, as the check-in process may have changed.