The American Red Cross urgently needs donors to help boost the blood supply following the Independence Day holiday. The organization has issued an emergency appeal for blood donors of all blood types, and those with O negative, B negative and A negative blood are especially encouraged to give. There is a critical need for platelet donors as well. It’s the blood on the shelves that can save lives when a disaster strikes.
How to Donate Blood: Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license, or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: Platelet donors; negative blood types urgently needed