Elections 2026: Essential safety tips you need to know

On Wednesday, 4 November 2026, South Africans nationwide will be heading to the polls for the 2026 Local Government Elections.

Across the country, voting stations will be open from 07:00 to 21:00 tomorrow. While every possible effort is made to safeguard voters and their right to vote, it’s still important for you to remain vigilant before, during and after the voting process. This means being prepared and aware of your surroundings at all times.

ELECTIONS: FOLLOW THESE FIVE SAFETY TIPS

Whether you’re a first-time or veteran voter, ensure that you follow these five safety tips:

1. BARE ESSENTIALS ONLY

Avoid bringing or wearing flashy, expensive jewellery on voting day. Image: Pexels

At the voting station, you are required to bring and present one of three acceptable forms of identification: a green barcoded South African ID book; a smart ID card; or a valid temporary identity certificate.

Avoid bringing expensive valuables, such as flashy jewellery or high-tech devices, from home with you on voting day. If you plan on bringing items like your cellphone or wallet, these must be securely stored when not in use.

2. SECURITY CHECKS

There’s no telling how long you’ll be in the voting queue. As such, you may be away from home for a long time.

Fidelity Services Group advises you to secure your home before leaving. This includes double-checking that doors, windows and other points of entry are locked. Be sure to activate your alarm system and keep your valuables well out of sight.

3. SAFE DRIVE TO AND FRO

Ask a friend or family member to accompany you to the voting station. Image: Pexels

Unfamiliar with the area where your registered voting station is located? Familiarise yourself with the route by checking a map app or mapbook. Alternatively, says Fidelity, ask a trusted friend or family member to accompany you. There’s safety in numbers, after all.

When you arrive at the voting station, park your vehicle in a secure, well-lit area. Ensure that you lock it and you don’t leave any valuables in plain sight within.

If you’re being tailed by another vehicle after voting, don’t drive straight home. Instead, head to your nearest police station.

4. DON’T LINGER

Voting is not just your right – it’s everyone’s right. As such, you are strongly advised to not linger around the voting station after casting your vote. This helps maintain the privacy of voting.

Also, lingering can make other voters feel uncomfortable. This can be intimidating or – when it comes to voters with a short fuse – lead to tempers flaring.

5. SAVE EMERGENCY CONTACTS

Save important emergency numbers on your phone. Image: Pexels

If you require assistance from emergency services, keep their contact details saved on your phone. What’s more, let a trusted friend or family member know your whereabouts or how they can reach you if needed.

VOTE SAFELY AND SMARTLY

It’s important to uphold your right to vote at the elections tomorrow. By the same token, you need to prioritise your personal safety. Simply adhere to the above tips, and you will ensure a safe and smooth voting process for you and others.

Happy voting, folks!