The American Red Cross is relying on donations from Santa Clarita residents to fill a shortage of blood donors able to give blood due to the flu season.

“The flu season is notorious for being the cause of work and school absences,” said an American Red Cross news release. “Those who can’t make it to their daily responsibilities because of illness are most likely to call out of their blood donor appointments as well.

The American Red Cross has made arrangements for multiple upcoming opportunities for citizens of Santa Clarita to donate blood, listed below:

Castaic

• Feb. 22, 2018: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m., Castaic Middle School, 28900 Hillcrest Pkwy

Valencia

• Feb. 27, 2018: 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., College of the Canyons, 26455 Rockwell Canyon Rd

Santa Clarita

• Feb. 28, 2018: 1 p.m. – 7 p.m., Santa Clarita Old West Masonic Lodge, 19310 Avenue of the Oaks

During the winter and early spring, it is particularly important that these healthy potential donors schedule an appointment with the American Red Cross in order to help keep a sufficient amount of blood supply available to those in need, according to officials.

In 2018, the extreme winter conditions forced over 600 blood drives to be cancelled, and according to the Red Cross, over 17,500 potential donors were denied the chance to help do their part. Widespread flu across the country has been the main reason for lower turnout rates in the United States.

In order to make an appointment, or for more information, call the Red Cross at 1-800-733-2787. (1-800-733-2767), download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App or visit here.

A blood donor card, a driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Volunteers aged 17 or over, weighing at least 110 pounds, and in good health may be eligible to donate.

“All blood types are needed to maintain an adequate supply of blood,” said a Red Cross news release.

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