Red Cross slates blood drive in Chinook

From American Red Cross

An American Red Cross blood drive will be held 1-6 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 15, at Wallner Hall in Chinook.

Appointments are encouraged by the Red Cross but are not necessary. Donors, scheduled or walk in, are welcome.

Anyone age 16 or older is encouraged to donate blood. People ages 16 and 17 must have  a signed parental consent and valid identification. Parental consents will be available at the welcome table at Chinook High School office, or people may go to redcrossblood.org and enter the zip code to print a consent form.    

Donors of all ages should bring valid ID or a Red Cross donor card.  

Here are some answers to common eligibility questions:

• Allergy: People with allergies may donate as long as they feel well, have no fever and and are having no problems with breathing.

• Asthma: People with asthma may donate as long as they are not having difficulty breathing at the time of donation and otherwise feel well. Asthma medications do not disqualify people from donating.

Cold, flu, sore throat: People with a fever, productive cough, or other acute cold symptoms should not donate until feeling well enough to donate.  A person who has completed antibiotic treatment for sinus, throat or lung infection may donate. Mild nasal congestion, a dry cough or allergies are acceptable.

People need to remember, before donating it is recommended that they get a good night of sleep, have a good breakfast or lunch and drink extra water and fluids to replace the volume will be donated.  However, try to avoid beverages with caffeine.  Also, try to eat iron-rich foods and avoid fatty foods.