Around 850,000 Canadians cast their ballots on just the first day of advance polls on Friday, according to Elections Canada.

This represents a 26% increase from the first day of advance polls during the federal election of 2011 and a 90% increase over 2008.

Another 780,000 people cast their ballots on Saturday, bringing the two-day total to 1.6 million, a 34% increase over the first two days in 2011.

While some polling stations saw long line ups, those casting their ballots at a station in the Edmonton Sun building, 4990 92 Avenue, on Sunday afternoon said the process was quick and hassle free.

“It’s handy,” said Emilia Quibell, who used the advance poll for the first time as she is undergoing surgery that would have made it difficult to cast her vote on election day on Oct. 19.

She seized thanksgiving dinner as an opportunity to have her son Grant Quibell take her to cast her ballot before they settle in for their family meal.

“It only took a few minutes, and we’re done,” said Grant, who chose to wait until election day to vote.

Emilia said she wasn’t willing to let surgery interfere with performing her civic duty, laughing, “you can’t complain if you don’t vote.”

Kathy Gallagher said elections have always been a family affair and the advance polls allow her, her husband and two sons to coordinate their schedules and vote together.

“So many countries, people have to fight so hard just to get the right [to vote], so we shouldn’t not vote because it is just too important,” said Gallagher.

Athena Ng said she has taken advantage of the advance polls many times before as a way to avoid the line ups and traffic jams of election day.

“It’s our right, it’s our privilege to do it,” she said.

For those unable to make it to the ballot box on Oct. 19, the advance polls are open Thanksgiving Monday from noon to 8 p.m.

Voters can also cast a ballot at Elections Canada Offices until Tuesday, Oct. 13 at 6 p.m. Those unable to get to a polling station can apply to vote by mail before Tuesday at 6 p.m.

For more information, including where to vote and what identification you need, go to www.elections.ca

@ClaireTheobald

claire.theobald@sunmedia.ca