diff --git a/django_q/cluster.py b/django_q/cluster.py
index 79ce10a..23c9049 100644
--- a/django_q/cluster.py
+++ b/django_q/cluster.py
@@ -1,4 +1,5 @@
 # Standard
+import os
 import signal
 import socket
 import uuid
@@ -230,8 +231,14 @@ class Sentinel:
                 % {"name": process.name}
             )
         else:
-            if prometheus_multiprocess:
+            # check if prometheus is proper configurated
+            prometheus_path = os.getenv(
+                "PROMETHEUS_MULTIPROC_DIR", os.getenv("prometheus_multiproc_dir")
+            )
+
+            if prometheus_multiprocess and prometheus_path:
                 prometheus_multiprocess.mark_process_dead(process.pid)
+
             self.pool.remove(process)
             self.spawn_worker()
             if process.timer.value == 0: