Every two to three seconds, someone in this country needs blood and the types most often in need are O-negative and O-positive.

Only six percent of the population has O-negative blood, but it is the universal blood type meaning that anyone can receive it. In emergency or trauma situations, when there is no time to cross-match the donor’s blood with the patient’s, O-negative blood is the type most often used.

Thirty-seven percent of the population has O-positive and is the next commonly transfused blood type because of its high compatibility with other types. Having a strong supply of O-negative and O-positive blood is critical to meeting patient needs.

The necessity for Type O blood donors to give regularly is essential to getting the right blood products to area patients and why anyone who has never given blood before is encouraged to try. The next opportunity to donate blood will be August 23 at Woonsocket Community Center from 12:15-6 p.m. Contact Carrie Howard at 770-8997 to make an appointment or call United Blood Services at 1-800-917-4929 for more information.

To save time, donors can now fill out their Health History Questionnaire online at www.unitedbloodservices.org the day of their donation. To donate blood, volunteers must be at least 16 years old (16 and 17 year old donors need a minor donor permit which is available online) and be in good health.