The American Red Cross uses Trauma Awareness Month in May to prepare for emergencies before summer gets into full swing for area donors.
The Red Cross is asking people to schedule their May donation appointment before year-end school ceremonies, sporting events, and celebrations fill their days, as patients will still need blood.
Emergencies can happen anytime, and donors can help ensure blood is ready for patients in the most critical situations.
Donors can also give platelets to help prepare hospitals for transfusion needs.
Type O blood donors and donors giving platelets are especially needed right now.
You can schedule a time to donate to the Red Cross online, by calling 1-800-RED CROSS, or through the Red Cross Blood Donor App.
