MINNEAPOLIS, MINN. – The American Red Cross has declared a national blood crisis for only the second time in its history, citing a sharp decline in donations that has left the nation’s blood supply at a four-year summer low. According to Red Cross Regional Communications Manager Sam Solberg, the shortage is especially severe for Type O blood. “The situation is especially dire for Type O blood,” Solberg said. The Red Cross says blood donations are essential not only for trauma patients but also for cancer treatments, childbirth complications, and other medical emergencies. People can find donation opportunities by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting the Red Cross blood donation website, or calling 1-800-RED-CROSS.