Emergency need for blood donations in mid-Missouri

The Red Cross has issued an emergency call for blood donations after thousands fewer donations than needed in late Spring.

The Red Cross said in May and June, they received 61,000 donations less than needed which they say is equivalent to not receiving any donations for four days.

A blood drive is scheduled as the Columbia donation center on South Providence from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Mid-Missouri will also be in a heat advisory starting at noon.

To donate blood safely in the heat, experts recommend have a meal before the donation to help prevent dizziness. In excessive heat and while donating blood, staying hydrated is important. A common rule is eight, eight-ounce glasses of water a day. However, in the extra heat and humidity, it’s recommended to increase that amount.

The Red Cross also recommends not doing any strenuous exercise after donating blood. Exercising outdoors in the heat can also be dangerous.

Donors can schedule donation appointments on the organization’s website, RedCross.Org.

The Red Cross is providing $5 Target gift cards to every donor who donates between today and the end of August.