Donate Blood at Battle of the Badges

 

The Liberal Fire and Police Departments and the Seward County Sheriff and EMS will compete for bragging rights in an American Red Cross Battle of the Badges blood drive Sept. 29 from noon to 5:30 p.m. at Western Avenue Church of Christ, 215 S. Western Ave.

The Battle of the Badges is a friendly competition to encourage community members to join first responders to perform their own heroic act with a blood donation. The team who has the most people donate on their behalf will receive a traveling trophy to display for the coming year.

The Battle of the Badges blood drive occurs during September which is National Preparedness Month, and an important reminder that a readily available blood supply is critical for emergencies. All those who come to donate during the Battle of the Badges blood drive will receive a coupon via email for a free haircut from Sport Clips Haircuts.

“Fire, law enforcement and EMS units know firsthand how important it is to have blood readily available for emergencies,” said Hailey Murray, account manager of the Central Plains Blood Services Region. “By hosting this blood drive, they are helping ensure that blood is on the shelves before it is needed.”

Through the first two weeks of September, the Red Cross is down more than 10,000 donations from what is needed to replenish the blood supply and be prepared for emergencies large and small. Declines in donations can lead to blood shortages and make it difficult to meet patient needs should a disaster or emergency occur.

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).