photo by: Community Blood Center

A significant drop in blood donations has led the Community Blood Center of Greater Kansas City, which supplies blood to LMH Health and dozens of area hospitals, to declare a blood emergency.

The emergency comes during what is often referred to as “trauma season” — the weeks between Memorial Day and Labor Day, which usually see a spike in traumatic accidents.

“About 25% of trauma patients require blood transfusions, so an increase in traumas can strain an already limited blood supply,” the CBC said in a news release. “Additionally, school breaks, travel, and busy summer schedules make blood donation less of a priority and often lead to seasonal shortages.”

The region currently has only a two-day blood supply of types O- and B-, well below the optimal level of five to seven days. Platelets and all other blood types are also in short supply.

CBC hosts daily blood drives and operates eight area donor centers. Blood donors can give every 56 days, and platelet donors can give twice per month. The Food and Drug Administration recently lifted several blood donor eligibility restrictions. To view current eligibility guidelines or make an appointment, visit savealifenow.org or call 877-468-6844.

All donors who show up to donate at any CBC donation location through July 31 will be entered in a drawing to win Kansas City Chiefs tickets to one of the first four preseason or regular-season home games.