As we approach the General Election for 2012 I think it is important to stress some of the dos and don'ts that voters should consider. I know everyone wants to get the results as soon as possible so here are some things that voters can do.... and please don't do.

DO:

Inform yourself on the candidates and issues. The voter pamphlet will be arriving about the same time as your ballot. Ballots were mailed Oct. 19. Other information is online at vote.wa.gov/Whatcom.

Once you've made up your mind, vote your ballot and return it. The earlier we receive voted ballots the more totals we can release on Election Day.

Follow the voting instructions supplied with your ballot.

Use blue or black ink to connect the arrow making a single line.

Call the elections office if you have questions: 360-676-6742, or email us at elections@co.whatcom.wa.us.

DON'T:

Use pencil or Sharpie-style pens to mark your ballot and, please, no erasures or white-out.

Press hard when connecting your voting arrows. A clean single line will do. No marks need to be made other than in the arrow target area (the space between the head and the tail).

Write-in frivolous names for offices you can't decide about or in place of candidates you don't want. Mickey Mouse is not available to serve. Frivolous write-ins slow the count.

Delay getting your ballot mailed in. Mailed ballots must be postmarked no later than Nov. 6 so check carefully when the last mail pickup is in your area.

Delay if using a ballot drop box. Drop boxes close at 8 p.m. sharp election day. If you are in line by that time your ballot will be accepted. Any ballots received after that will be marked late and will not count.

Debbie Adelstein is Whatcom County auditor.