Health Department Asks County Residents To Donate Blood

The American Red Cross will be holding a blood drive on December 22, from 12:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. in the conference room at Garrett County Health Department at 1025 Memorial Drive in Oakland.

Give the gift of life for the holidays! During the busy holiday season, set aside just one hour of your time. Schedule an appointment now to donate blood – and bring a friend or family member too! Everyone who donates will receive a gift. Gift choices include pot holder, ladle, or T-shirt.

Please follow these Red Cross recommendations for a successful blood donation: Maintain a healthy iron level in your diet. Stay well hydrated by drinking an extra 16 ounces of liquid before and after your donation. Have a healthy meal before your donation and avoid foods high in fat just prior to donation. Remember to bring your ID.

To donate blood, a person must be healthy, weigh at least 110 pounds, be at least 17 years old, (or 16 years old with parental consent form), and have not donated blood in the last 56 days.

Remember that using RAPIDPASS can save you up to 15 minutes.

Using RAPIDPASS is simple. On the day of the blood drive just:

1. Visit www.redcrossblood.org/RapidPass
2. Read the information
3. Answer the questions
4. Print the pass and bring along or email the pass to yourself and show on your smart phone

To schedule an appointment please call Venessa at 301-334-7730 or 301-895-3111, or visit redcrossblood.org to schedule your appointment. Walk-ins are also welcome.