It's Time To "Pump Up The Volume" In Montana

Summer in Montana means camping, hiking, fishing, road trips, and spending as much time outdoors as possible.

Unfortunately, summer also means more accidents and a greater need for blood donations.

Blood Donations Decline During the Summer Months

Blood donations are always important. In fact, someone in America needs a blood transfusion every two seconds. The problem is that during the summer months, when people get busier and spend more time traveling, donations tend to drop off.

That's why the American Red Cross holds its annual "Pump Up The Volume" campaign every July. To put the need into perspective, a person seriously injured in a traffic accident can require as many as 100 units of blood.

The campaign takes place right in the middle of what the Red Cross calls "trauma season," the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day when summertime activities lead to an increase in accidents and injuries.

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Blood Donors Can Earn Gift Cards And Prize Entries In July

The good news is that a single blood donation can help save up to three lives. And during the month-long campaign, donors can also score a few rewards.

Anyone who donates blood during July will receive a $15 e-gift card to a business of their choice and will automatically be entered to win one of two $7,500 gift cards.

That's a pretty good deal for taking a little time out of your day to help someone in need.

To find the next blood drive near you, visit the American Red Cross website for locations and donation times by clicking here. You can also call 1-800-RED CROSS or use the Red Cross app to schedule an appointment.

You may never meet the person whose life you help save, but chances are they'll never forget that someone took the time to donate when they needed it most.

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