Red Cross urges Coloradans to donate as summer shortage threatens hospital suppliesBy North Forty News Staff | NorthFortyNews.comThe American Red Cross has declared a national blood crisis for only the second time in its history, warning that critically low blood supplies could impact patients who rely on lifesaving transfusions. While all blood types are needed, the Red Cross says the situation is especially urgent for type O blood, with type O positive supplies dropping below a one-day level and hospitals facing limited distributions of these critical blood products. The Red Cross is asking eligible donors to schedule an appointment through the Blood Donor App, by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). The Red Cross says even a small increase in donor turnout could make a significant difference in helping hospitals maintain adequate blood supplies. The American Red Cross supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood and depends on volunteer donors to provide critical support for patients in hospitals, emergency rooms and treatment centers.