Western Washington's blood supply has reached critical levels in O-, A- and B- blood groups, according to the Puget Sound Blood Center.
A blood group is labeled critical when it is less than a two-day supply. A four- day inventory is considered operational.
Due to the recent snowstorm and icy weather, Puget Sound Blood Center has lost over 1,200 donations from those not able to donate.
Also, as the blood center moves into the holidays, it is entering a time of year when donations are traditionally down.
It takes over 900 donor registrations every day to maintain an operational blood supply in Western Washington.
For the safety and care of patients, the Blood Center urges donors stop by one of the 11 donor centers or the over 100 blood drives held each week.
Schedule an appointment with Puget Sound Blood Center by calling 1-800-398-7888. Appointments are encouraged but walk-ins are also welcome. Visit www.psbc.org for donation center hours of operation and driving directions and a complete listing of blood drives throughout the region.
Centers close to the Highline area are Tukwila, 130 Andover Park E., 206-241-6300; Seattle, 921 Terry Ave., 206-292-6500; and Federal Way, 1414 S. 324TH St., Suite B101.
The center is also holding a blood drive at the Prince of Peace Lutheran Fellowship Hall, 19030 8th Ave. S. on Dec. 20. Hours are 1- 7 p.m. with a closure from 3- 3:45 p.m.
To reserve a time to donate blood on Dec. 20, call Courtney or Nancy Steinke at 206-878-4219.
Puget Sound Blood Center is an independent, community-based blood center with a long and unique tradition of blending community volunteerism, medical science and research to improve patients' lives. Patients with leukemia, cancer, burns, hemophilia and traumatic injuries depend on the breakthrough discoveries made by Blood Center scientists.
Internationally recognized as a leader in transfusion medicine, the Blood Center operates the world's largest transfusion service, serves patients in more that 70 hospitals and clinics in 14 Western Washington counties and provides tissue and transplantation support to 185 hospitals across the Northwest.
If you have further questions, please contact Michael Young at 206-292-6589.