Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
DRAPER, Utah (Oct. 6, 2023) — Recognizing the urgent need for lifesaving blood in community hospitals, the Draper City Fire Department and the American Red Cross of Utah are joining forces to host a blood drive on Monday, Oct. 9, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Fire Station 22, located at 14324 Fire House Road.
“Being first responders, we witness firsthand the critical need for blood donations,” said Clint Smith, Draper City Fire Chief. "Without an adequate blood supply, many emergency victims would not survive. We urge the public to join us on October 9 to donate blood. This simple act can have a profound impact, significantly improving and even saving countless lives."
The Red Cross is currently grappling with a severe blood shortage, due to a combination of reduced summer donations and numerous blood drive cancellations caused by natural disasters. The demand for blood in hospitals is exceeding the rate of donations, leading to a 25% decrease in the Red Cross's national blood supply.
“Saving lives and helping others has always been the top priority for our first responders. With the Red Cross experiencing blood shortages, this event becomes even more crucial,” said Jeremiah Lafranca, Executive Director of the American Red Cross of Utah, Greater Salt Lake Chapter. "When supplies of blood and platelets reach critically low levels, it puts hospitals and their patients at risk. This is especially true in situations like major accidents or emergency medical procedures during disasters, where large amounts of blood are required."
Help end the national blood shortage
The Red Cross plays a pivotal role in maintaining the country's blood supply, contributing around 40% of all collected blood. To meet the needs of patients at over 2,500 hospitals and transfusion centers, the Red Cross must typically collect 12,500 blood and 3,000 platelet donations daily. Donors can schedule an appointment using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
While all blood types are needed, there is a critical need for type O and platelet donors. Type O positive is the most frequently transfused blood type, while O negative serves as the universal donor, often used in emergencies when the patient's blood type cannot be quickly determined. Platelets provide a unique blood product for hospital patients, like those fighting cancer.
Draper Fire Prevention Night
Immediately after the blood drive, Draper will host its annual Fire Prevention Night at Draper Park from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. This free event will feature firefighters conducting fire demonstrations and providing safety education, including guidance on using fire extinguishers.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.