West Hartford’s two emergency service organizations hope to use the ‘battle’ as a way to increase the number of blood donors.

Submitted

West Hartford fire and police departments are teaming with the American Red Cross for a Battle of the Badges blood drive to see who can recruit the most eligible donors in their community to donate blood.

Individuals can join the Battle of the Badges blood drive by donating blood on Aug. 24, 2015 from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the West Hartford Town Hall, 50 S. Main St. Donors’ blood donations will help decide who wins bragging rights and help support the community blood supply.

Battle of the Badges is a friendly competition to encourage community members to join their local first responders and perform their own heroic act with a blood donation.

West Hartford Police Department Badge

“West Hartford fire and police departments know firsthand how important it is to have blood readily available for emergencies,” said Stefanie Arcangelo, external communications manager of the Connecticut Blood Services Region. “By hosting this blood drive, they are helping ensure that blood is on the shelves before it is needed.”

The West Hartford Battle of the Badges blood drive comes at an important time for the Red Cross. The Red Cross is facing a looming shortage of the blood types most needed by patients and is calling on eligible donors with O negative, B negative blood to give now to prevent an emergency situation. The Red Cross also needs platelet donors and those with type AB blood to help ensure the shelves are stocked for patients in need. 

To make an appointment for Battle of the Badges, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

How to donate blood

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) 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 consent 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.

About the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.