Red Cross wants volunteers to roll up sleeves

The American Red Cross has scheduled blood drives at the following locations in the region throughout October:

• Oct. 8 — 1 to 6 p.m. at Maple Elementary School, 413 C St., in Myrtle Point;

• Oct. 9 — 1 to 6 p.m. at The Barn, 1100 W. 11th, in Bandon;

• Oct. 10 — 1 to 6 p.m. at College Park Community Church, 2548 Newmark St., in North Bend;

• Oct. 11 — 1 to 6 p.m.  at St. Monica Catholic Church, 357 S. Sixth St., in Coos Bay;

• Oct. 22 — noon to 5 p.m. at the Masonic Temple, 626 Winchester Ave., in Reedsport.;

• Oct. 24 — 1 to 6 p.m. at College Park Community Church, 2548 Newmark St., in North Bend;

• Oct. 25 — 1 to 6 p.m. at St. Monica Catholic Church, 357 S. Sixth St., in Coos Bay; and

• Oct. 25 — 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Powers Baptist Church, 990 First Ave.

Donors must be 17 years old or older, in good health, weigh at least 110 pounds and wait at least 56 days between donations. Those planning to donate should start drinking water 48 hours in advance, sleep for at least eight hours the night before, eat a high protein, well-balanced meal at least two hours before donation and bring a picture identification or Red Cross donor card.

 Wearing clothing with sleeves that can be raised above the elbow and avoiding heavy lifting or vigorous exercise for approximately five hours after donation is also advised.

The blood donation process takes about one hour and includes four steps: registration, mini-physical and health history, collection and refreshments.

Those interested can call (800) 448-3543, or (541) 439-3685 in Powers, to schedule a donation appointment.