Blood supplies across the country are at dangerously low levels following a severe decline in blood donations leading up to and following the Fourth of July holiday.
Nationwide, the shortage is projected at 67,000 units over the past few months, with deficits projected through August.
Locally, extreme heat has resulted in lower than expected turnouts at drives. For LifeStream, blood is constantly in demand to assist hospital patients all across Southern California. During the summer months when brush fires are prevalent, it is crucial for LifeStream to maintain a readily available blood supply to treat burns. Cancer patients and trauma or car accident victims also require a steady supply.
At present, LifeStream continues to fulfill all requests from partner hospitals for blood. However, in an effort to rebuild supplies, be prepared for unexpected events, and avoid a blood shortage in our community over the coming weeks, the community is asked to come forward and give blood this week and throughout the remainder of the summer.
To help prepare to donate in unusually hot conditions, it is recommended that donors pay extra attention to properly hydrating in the days and hours prior to giving blood. Water is always best for this purpose.
LifeStream urges both existing and first-time donors of all blood types to visit LStream.org or call 800-879-4484 to schedule an appointment to give at one of five, climate-controlled donor centers (San Bernardino, Riverside, Ontario, Victorville, La Quinta) or at a convenient mobile drive.
Walk-ins are welcome.
Blood donors must be at least 15 years of age, feel well on drive day, present current photo ID, and weigh at least 110 pounds. Donors under 18 years must present a signed parental consent form. Forms are available at www.LStream.org.
LifeStream is a local, nonprofit blood center that provides blood products and services to more than 80 Southern California hospitals.