Call for blood and platelet donors

There is still a critical need for blood and platelet donors, according to the American Red Cross. Officials say donors of all blood types are in demand, especially those with type O blood and donors giving platelets.

According to the American Red Cross, more than a quarter of all blood products each year are used in critical care and emergency room cases and every donation counts.

Donors can help hospitals stay prepared for lifesaving transfusions this summer.

You can schedule a time to give blood or platelets by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

You can also donate locally through Memorial Blood Centers in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Visit the Memorial Blood Centers website for additional details and locations.