The Mower County Red Cross is accepting blood donations once again.

The Red Cross will be at Sterling State Bank from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Feb. 6, and from noon to 6 p.m. Feb. 7 and 8. Riverland Community College will host a blood drive from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 9 and Mower County employees will have a blood drive from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 13.

Like the emergency room of a hospital, the Red Cross must be prepared to respond to patient emergencies with blood products 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Each day, about 44,000 units of blood are needed for patients in the United States. All eligible donors are encouraged to become an everyday supporter of the Red Cross and their communities by giving blood this winter.

 

How to Donate Blood

Call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) 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.

Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.