Red Cross issues emergency call for blood and platelet donations

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- The American Red Cross has issued an emergency call for blood and platelet donations in our area.

It's a problem we see almost every year around this time.

In the Summer, typically more blood donations are needed due to accidents and other reasons.

But due to vacations - especially around July 4th, there are fewer people donating blood.

The Red Cross says they're distributing blood products to hospitals faster than donations are coming in.

Over the past few months, they've been behind by about 39,000 donations nationwide.

So if you can donate either blood or platelets, please do so.

CLICK HERE to find a Red Cross location near you or to make an appointment.

You can also call the Red Cross directly at 1-800-RED-CROSS.