Red Cross Puts Out Nationwide Call For Blood

The American Red Cross has put out a national call for blood donations. The blood supply has dropped to critically low levels as we get into the heat of the summer months, with many donors traveling or busy and schools out of session.

Mike Baisey, Communications Manager for the Chesapeake and Potomac Blood Services Region, says there’s a need for all blood types, but especially O negative, which can be used for virtually any patient in a trauma situation. He says that blood type is absolutely vital to have on hand in the emergency room.

You can go on line to redcrossblood.org to find a blood drive nearest you.  By entering your zip code, you can find a list of donation opportunities.  Donors can also call 1-800-Red-Cross for more information on local blood drives. Baisey says they’re adding drives and extending hours, so the list will be updated during the week.  He says they want to provide as much opportunity to donate as they can, providing the community every opportunity to make a donation.

Baisey says they’re asking anyone who may be eligible to please schedule a donation at a donor center or a mobile blood drive in their area, and do it as soon as possible. He says they want to make sure the Red Cross can provide the needed blood supply to all of the local hospitals to make sure they don’t get into a situation where elective surgeries might be in question.