Being Prepared, Knowing Your Ballot, Can Keep Lines Moving On Election Day

High voter turnout is anticipated on election Tuesday. Since September 1, Tulsa County has entered more than 28,000 applications for people registering to vote - and nearly two-thirds of them are first-time voters.

The Board of Elections has also processed more than 10,000 absentee ballots so far.

In one week, voters will go to the polls to vote on a number of key races and state questions; and with high voter turnout expected, you’ll likely have to wait in line.

11/1/2016 Related Story: Understanding The State Questions On The Oklahoma Ballot

But, officials say going in prepared can make those lines move a little faster.

As the clock ticks closer to election Tuesday, we are now just one week from knowing the results.

Patty Bryant with the Tulsa County Election Board said, "Well, it just seems to be busier right now."

Swamped with new applications, processing absentee ballots and setting up polling sites for Election Day, Patty Bryant expects long lines at peak times next Tuesday and encourages registered voters to take advantage of early voting.

In addition to the Election Board, Tulsa County will have a second polling location open at the Hardesty Regional Library on Thursday, Friday, and part of Saturday.

10/27/2016 Related Story: Tulsa County Election Officials Expect High Turnout For Early Voting

"As you are entering your poll, have your ID ready, be looking at all the signs," Bryant advised.

She said for a shorter wait in line, avoid the before work rush, the lunch hour rush and between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

But, you should also make sure you know what's on the ballot if you want to get in and out.

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Bryant said, "And the other thing would be, the people who have not prepared, who have not read the state questions yet."

With seven state questions on the ballot, there is a lot to know, which is why it's important you read them before you go vote; that will also help keep those lines moving.

"Make your decisions before you go vote, then you're going to get in and get out," Bryant said.

And for those of us who haven't taken a 'test' in a while, here’s a simple thing to remember when you fill out your ballot: don't 'X' don't 'Check" you must fill it in.

State Questions On Oklahoma Ballot: