Election day health and safety tips

By Edward DEBRAH

Ghana goes to the polls on Saturday December 7, 2024, to elect a new President and 276 Parliamentarians to steer the affairs of the country for a four-year term. This process plays a key role in deepening the enviable democratic credentials of the West African Country.

From 1992 till date, Ghana has gone through several peaceful electoral cycles that has deepened her credentials and earned huge praise from neighbouring countries and even from developed countries the world over. This weekend’s election will add more flavour to the record attained over the years.

Elections, like any other event, could present risks as scores of people will converge at polling stations in queues, standing under the scorching sun and in some situations being drenched by the rain. While nobody expects any untoward issues to arise, it is important that basic Health and Safety Tips are adhered to in order to promote a peaceful electoral process.

Lead up to the Elections

1. It is crucial to stay informed by being abreast with reliable information about polling station locations, voting times and security protocols available. It is also important for eligible voters to verify their names on the voter registration list.
2. Due to the sunny weather, it is important for people to keep hydrated by consuming nutritious meals, drink lots of water/fluids and nose mask if necessary to avoid contracting or passing on infections through coughing, inhalation
3. Be particular about traveling alone especially in unfamiliar areas and ensure phones are fully charged to keep in touch with family and friends should plans change.
4. Although, it is expected to be largely peaceful, ensure you do not display any political party paraphernalia on the day and avoid unnecessary arguments and confrontations that may undermine the expected peaceful process. Stay away from all campaign activities on the day of the elections. lead up to the elections.

During the Elections: Stay calm and alert

1.? ?Arriving early to cast your vote is the best thing to do. Queues will build up in the course of the day so to get in there early, cast your vote and leave peacefully.

2. Adhere to all directives from electoral officials and security staff present. Respect the rights of others and ensure a peaceful environment is created for all eligible voters.
3. While pandemic restrictions have been relaxed, crowded settings may still present health hazards. Utilize hand sanitize after contacting communal surfaces and maintain a reasonable distance from others. Best to wear a nose mask under the circumstances.
4. Notify security personnel at the polling station of any suspicious behaviour or threats and refrain from engaging in political discussions at polling stations.

Post-Election: Prioritize safety and awareness

1. Leave the Polling Station after casting your ballot and go home to monitor the exercise on radio, television etc. Follow the election results on approved channels on radio, television and other media.
2. Stay indoors in the event of heightened tensions in your vicinity and avoid public outdoor places to protect your personal safety.
3. Remain calm and alert at the same time to vulnerable persons, such as children, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities who may require assistance during this period.
4. Contact Emergency Services on the numbers below in case of any emergency:

• Ghana National Fire Service – 192
• Ghana Police Service – 191/18555
• National Ambulance – 193
• National Emergency Response – 112

Responsibilities of Community and Government

1. Government Authorities must ensure adequate and sufficient security and emergency agencies including Medical Response and First-Aid stations are fully stocked, accessible and are on standby at vantage points to attend to and address any unforeseen circumstances that could compromise Public Health and Safety.
2. Peace Council, Clergy, Chiefs, Opinion Leaders, Statesmen and influencers should be advocates for peace by discouraging any form of incitement that could lead to violence. Notable is the ‘Peace Pact’ that has been signed is a step in the right direction.
3. Anybody that is found to have committed any offence before, during and after the elections should be made to face the full wrath of the law. No shielding, traversing of justice should be tolerated.

In summary, the December 7, 2024, election, presents a huge opportunity for Ghanaians to be Citizens and not Spectators as we vote to elect a new leader for the next 4 years. The Heath and Safety guidelines provided above, when adhered to, could be vital to ensuring a peaceful and effective electoral process. Health and Safety, under no circumstance, should be compromised. Uniting in our efforts to protect our young democracy is the right thing to do, for our collective well-being.

God Bless Our Homeland Ghana and Make our Nation Great and Strong!!!

Edward is a UK based HSEQ Executive, has over 12 years of HSEQ experience across Oil and Gas, Energy, Construction, University Lecturer and Waste Management.

Email: [email protected]
Twitter: @theeddiedebs
IG: @theeddiedebs

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