Blood Products – Shortage Alert

We are one week from our quarterly ARC blood drive (7/30/26) and the need is greater than ever. Summer is known a “Trauma Season” to first responders. We experience some of the events that cause people to need these blood products from trauma centers and even some EMS transport units. Register for an appointment HERE. The American Red Cross Blood Drive is at The Graafschap Fire Department, 4534 60th Street, on Thursday, July 30 from 10-4.

The average citizen might see generalities of a horrific crash IF it makes the news outlets. We monitor fire/rescue radio channels from around the region. We hear EVERY call that gets dispatched. There are many more incidents than are reported in the news. The need for whole blood products peaks this time every year. Register for an appointment HERE.

EMS is a team effort! We do what we can to facilitate a rescue and apply basic life support. However, the general public is the only ones that can help with the next step in the trauma-treatment process. Blood products can be infused in the field by advanced paramedics from aeromedical units dispatched to scenes. Emergency room physicians rely on these products to help a patient survive until they can get to surgery. Trauma surgeons rely on the blood supply during life-saving procedures.

Hopefully by now, you understand the trauma process a little more. Please consider being a part of our team by rolling up your sleeve on Thursday and donating blood. Appointments are suggested and walk-ins are welcome, if a spot is open. Click this link to go directly to the scheduling page.

When donors come to give blood July 13–31 they’ll get a Fandango Movie Ticket^^ by email (up to $15 ticket price and fees). Register directly HERE.