Most people take for granted the idea that if they are hurt or injured — in an automobile accident, for example — that there will be enough blood on hand at the hospital to make up for their emergency needs. That’s only true, of course, if enough people give blood, and lately there haven’t been enough.

The Red Cross, which plays the lead role nationally in organizing and conducting blood drives, said this week that blood donations are falling short of projected needs. It’s an easy problem to remedy, because giving blood is an easy process. The next opportunity in our area is Thursday, Aug. 16, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Brownsdale. After that, the Red Cross will also draw blood at noon on Aug. 22 and Aug. 23 at the National Guard Armory in Albert Lea. For more information on giving blood or to make an appointment, go to redcrossblood.org.

For former blood donors who perhaps haven’t given in awhile, this is a good time to resume the habit. It’s also a great time for those who haven’t given previously to get involved.