Beat dog days of summer and donate blood

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While the temperature outside is rising, the blood supply often drops, due to donors being on vacation or busy with summer activities, according to the American Red Cross.

“Summer is a fun, but busy season for a lot of people,” said Geoff Kaufmann, CEO of the local Red Cross Blood Services region. “No matter what your schedule has in store, set aside an hour to donate blood through the Red Cross and be a lifesaver to patients in need.”

While all blood types are needed to meet patient demand, type O negative blood is especially needed at this time, according to the Red Cross.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities include:

•June 28, noon to 6 p.m., Calvary Lutheran Church, 605 Douglas Street, Alexandria.

•June 29, noon to 6 p.m., Calvary Lutheran Church, 605 Douglas Street, Alexandria.

•July 6, noon to 4 p.m., Armory, 311 Broadway Street, Alexandria.

To donate blood, call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543) 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. Eligible donors must be at least 17 years old, must weigh at least 110 pounds and be in general good health.

High school students and other donors 18 and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

Tags: red cross, blood drive, local news, news, blood, alexandria