Published: January 15, 2009 09:03 am      

Give blood to help pump up supplies

Have you or someone close to you ever needed blood? Maybe it was because of an accident. Or maybe it was after a surgical procedure.

Whatever the reasons, we know the need for blood donations is an ongoing one in our region and throughout the nation.

That’s why it’s important that we respond when that supply is threatened.

The American Red Cross is now reporting that the supply of type O negative and type B negative blood is low, at just over a one-day supply. A five- to seven-day supply is optimal. The Red Cross is urging blood donors with type O negative and B negative blood to make an appointment to donate blood to help replenish the supply.

Those leaders say that every two seconds someone in the United States will need blood. Blood donors play an extremely important role to help ensure a safe and adequate blood supply is available during the winter months. While the need for blood is constant, there is an even greater need during this time when the blood supply can reach critically low levels, they say.

A blood donor card or driver’s license, or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Eligible donors must be at least 17 years old, or 16 years old with a signed Red Cross parental/guardian consent form where the state permits, must weigh at least 110 pounds and be in generally good health.

We are urging those who can get to a blood drive to do so; it will make a difference for someone at the time they need it most.