TEMPLE, Texas — May is Trauma Injury Prevention month, and also one of the most active months for first responders when it comes to dealing with accidents and injuries to help patients and those in need.
However, it's also a month where the number of donations isn't always able to keep up with demand. In fact, the need for blood in Central Texas often increases just as the supply dips.
The reason? The 100 Deadliest Days on the Road--also known as the stretch of days between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
During this time, car crash injuries increase, accidents involving ATVs and boats rise, and other reckless behavior as a result of individuals not paying mind to their own safety around things like fireworks during the Fourth of July. There are also more kids that would otherwise be in school outside and playing.
In addition, many regular donors head on vacation, and many organizations help with organizing blood drives--most of which are groups that do their work in collaboration with local schools during the school year.
All of these factors add an increased strain on the blood supply, which makes donating during a time of higher demand even more valuable for first responders.
However, first responders aren't always able to help everyone with what they need immediately. When supply levels fall too low, hospitals may have to postpone regularly scheduled non-emergency procedures to ensure they have blood on hand for emergencies.
Fortunately, donating isn't a tedious task, and can take less than 30 minutes of your time.
On Wednesday, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Temple hospital parking lot, they will be hosting a blood drive to honor National Stop the Bleed Day. The hospital is looking for donors ages 17 and up who are in good health, hydrated, and between 110 and 350 pounds to donate.
Additionally, staff will be testing hemoglobin with a new, non-invasive procedure that doesn't require a finger prick.
The blood drive is open to the public, and appointments can be made by clicking here.