Red Cross Warns Blood Donations Dangerously Low; Asks For Help

Hot weather and summer travel have led to a shortage of blood donations which could leave many in our state at risk of not having the life-saving blood supplies they need.

Dan Dowling, Regional Communications Manager with the American Red Cross Northern New England Division says the Red Cross is experiencing an emergency blood shortage, putting our nations at risk of facing dangerous levels before the summer is even over.

"In July, heat impacted blood drives in nearly every state the Red Cross collects blood – a contributing factor to further draw down of an already-low blood supply. We need donors to give blood or platelets now to avoid any potential effect on lifesaving medical treatments. Over the next two weeks, 49% – or 1,179 appointments – remain unfilled in Maine."

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The American Red Cross says folks who are impacted by blood shortages are often the most vulnerable in our communities.

"Donors are needed now to make sure patients across the country receive lifesaving medical treatments. Accident victims, patients fighting cancer, those with chronic blood disorders, and others are relying on the kindness and generosity of volunteer blood and platelet donors.

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"People of all blood types are needed, especially platelet donors and those with type O blood – blood products that are critical to keeping hospitals ready to help patients depending on transfusions in the weeks ahead."

If you've never done it before, donating blood is a pretty easy thing to do.

If you have a blood donor card or a license, they'll use that to check you in when you arrive. Then it's a quick check that you're in good health, and you meet the height and weight requirements and you're good to go to give the gift of life!

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You can reach out and set up an appointment by downloading the Red Cross App, going to the RedCrossBlood.org website, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767.