Community Blood Bank giving events will take place Oct. 6 in Slayton

With blood supplies strained by multiple critical shortages in recent weeks, Community Blood Bank is asking Murray County residents to roll up their sleeves and give on Tuesday, Oct. 6.

Two blood drives will take place that day — one from 9 a.m. to noon at Murray County Central High School and the other from 2 to 5 p.m. at Murray County Medical Center.

A Community Blood Bank press release said blood is used every day to treat trauma patients, women in childbirth, farm accident victims and many others. With the fall shortage growing more urgent, local donations are needed to make sure hospitals are ready when emergencies happen. Donors can schedule a time by visiting cbblifeblood.org, selecting "Donate Now," then "Blood Drive Calendar," and choosing "October 6th," or by calling Community Blood Bank at (605) 331-3222. As a thank-you for helping save local lives, everyone who donates will receive a $20 Pizza Ranch gift card.

To donate, individuals must be in good health, weigh at least 110 pounds, and be at least 17 years old (16 years old with parental consent found at cbblifeblood.org). A photo ID is required at the time of donation. For more information on the drives, eligibility guidelines, or appointments, visit cbblifeblood.org.