Blood Donors Still Needed As Summer Lull Continues

FARMINGTON — The Connecticut Region of the American Red Cross Blood Services continues to call for donors to come forward as they experience a shortage of certain blood types. Those with blood types O-Positive, O-Negative, A-Negative, B-Negative, and B-Positive are urged to make an appointment to give blood as soon as possible by calling 800/448-3543.

Summer can be a time when giving blood is especially difficult. Summer’s heat and humidity can discourage donors from making appointments to give blood. But there is a way to significantly cut back on any adverse effects of donating blood during the summer months. A Red Cross spokesman said donors should drink plenty of non-alcoholic beverages, such as water or fruit juice, both before and after donating; wear loose fitting clothing; avoid heavy exercise before and after donating; and eat a good meal prior to giving blood.

For the comfort of donors, staff, sponsors, and volunteers, the American Red Cross makes every effort to run summer blood drives at air-conditioned sites.

To be eligible to give blood, you must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds, and be in generally good health.

The next blood drive in Newtown will be on Tuesday, July 25, from 11:45 am to 4:45 pm at Garner Correctional Institution on Nunnuwauk Road.