An emergency blood shortage is prompting the American Red Cross to issue an urgent call for eligible donors of all blood types – especially type O – to give now and help save lives.

The Red Cross escalated its call for blood and platelet donors after a difficult Independence Day week for donations. More than 550 fewer blood drives were organized by businesses and other community groups last week than during a typical week as individuals across the country celebrated the holiday and enjoyed summer activities. This could equate to as many as 15,000 fewer donations than needed, causing donations to now be distributed to hospitals faster than they come in, according to a news release.

“Each and every day, individuals across the country depends on blood and platelet donations for lifesaving treatments and emergency care, so it’s critical that people donate now to meet these needs,” said Cliff Numark, senior vice president, Red Cross Blood Services. “Whether you’ve never donated or give a couple of times a year, you’re needed to give as soon as possible to help save patient lives. Yours may be the donation a patient is counting on.”

There will be five blood drives in Mower County in July:

• July 10 – Mayo Clinic Health System in Austin, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• July 13 – Austin Utilities, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• July 13 – Good Samaritan Society in Austin, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• July 23 – St. John’s Lutheran Church in Austin, noon to 6 p.m.

• July 31 – Grand Meadow Lutheran Church, 1-7 p.m.

To schedule an appointment to donate, use the free Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).