Blood Drive at the Library Today

It’s hot. Families are on vacation. Generally eager student donors are out of school and consequently, the American Red Cross is nearly out of blood. The nation’s blood supply level, consistently low in summer, is now critical.

Since people sometimes find it difficult to get to a blood drive at the Connecticut Red Cross, the blood drive will be at the today from 12:30 to 5:15 p.m.

Anyone age 17 and over, weighing more than 110 pounds is welcome to donate blood and people with Type O blood are especially needed.

Donors are advised to stay hydrated before giving blood, wear something comfortable with sleeves that are short or can be rolled up, bring an ID and list of medications you’re taking and relax. When you come in, you’ll register, answer a few questions to ensure you’re healthy enough to give blood and check your pulse, temperature, blood pressure and blood.

The actual donation process takes 8-10 minutes and is similar to getting a shot — an alcohol swab, a pinprick and a bandage. When you’re all done, there’s juice and cookies and the knowledge that you may have saved the lives of people in need.

To find a time to donate, call 800-Red-Cross or stop by the library.