If you’re looking to do a good deed today, you might consider donating blood. The American Red Cross says it received 50,000 fewer donations than expected in June, and as a result, blood and platelet supplies are dangerously low.

Donations typically drop off during the summer months, but unseasonably warm temperatures and people taking off for vacations has made things even worse.

“Donations are down more than 10 percent across the country,” said Stephanie Millian, a spokeswoman for the American Red Cross. “We have almost half the amount of available blood on the shelves compared to last year… We need 38,000 units of blood every day to meet the needs of patients across the country.”

Especially in need is type O negative — it’s the universal blood type so it’s the first one doctors reach for in emergencies — as well as types O positive, B negative and A negative. That said, all donations are gratefully accepted.

To find a local blood donation center, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RedCross.

More From Newstalk KGVO 1290 AM & 98.3 FM