Red Cross says it's seeing a critically low blood supply but we're not seeing that locally here yet.
Vitalant, which handles blood donations in Northern Nevada, says they're aware of the blood shortages across the country.
But they're hopeful blood drives they have scheduled for this week will help ward off a deeper emergency here.
"We have some blood drives in place that if they're successful we're hoping we can avoid at least that local designation but we're definitely needing people to be proactive,” says Scott Edward/Senior Recruitment Manager, Vitalant.
They're hoping to collect 3,000 units of blood this month.
The 38th annual 'All Reno Radio Blood Drive' is happening this Wednesday and Thursday in the Paradise Room at the Atlantis Casino Resort Spa.
Donors can show up between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. either day.
Anyone interested can make an appointment online or by phone by calling 775-329-6451. Walk-ins will also be welcome.
Vitalant needs every blood type this winter, especially type O blood, which is often used for emergencies and life-saving surgeries. Just one unit of blood can save up to three lives.
“Only about 3% of the U.S. population donates blood each year, “said Scott Edward, senior donor recruitment manager for Vitalant. “In northern Nevada we need at least 150 points of blood a day to care for patients at the 22 hospitals we serve in the region.”
All donors will receive a pair of Reno Aces tickets, a one-topping pizza from My Pie, a Port of Subs sandwich, a Vitalant “I bleed Silver and Blue” t-shirt, and entry into several radio station raffles. Additionally, one lucky donor will receive an Atlantis Staycation Package, which includes a one-night stay and a $100 dining certificate.
To make an appointment, click on the link below -
