The Oregon and Southwest Washington Blood Program issued an appeal for donors this week after collections began to drop as a result of the ongoing heat wave.
In the past week, more than a half-dozen blood drives were suspended or canceled as temperatures climbed, according to the blood program. Drives disrupted by the heat wave typically take place in community centers or places of worship not equipped with air conditioning.
“We are already at the point where inventories of the most-needed blood types are falling below critical levels,” said Dr. James AuBuchon, president and chief executive officer of the Puget Sound Blood Center, which encompasses the local program. “With more hot days in the forecast, we will face an emergency if donors do not come in and donate.”
The Oregon and Southwest Washington Blood Program is asking eligible donors to schedule an appointment at the Vancouver donor center, 9320 N.E. Vancouver Mall Drive. To schedule an appointment, call 800-398-7888.
