North Massapequa Fire Department to hold Blood Drive

North Massapequa Fire Department Chief Stephen J. Shirreffs is urging residents to participate in the Department's semi-annual blood drive scheduled for Wednesday, October 6, 2010 at the North Massapequa Fire Department's Station 2 Location (929 Hicksville Road, Seaford, New York) from 3:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. to help replenish low supplies at local blood banks.

"There are few gifts a person can give that are more precious than a pint of blood," Chief Shirreffs said. "Hospitals use hundreds of pints of blood each day to meet the needs of Long Island's patients. Giving blood is always in season, and what better way to make a difference than by giving the gift of life to someone in need."

Chief Shirreffs said people should always donate whenever they can, especially as we approach the warmer months when supplies can also drop drastically.

"Donating is quick and easy and is an entirely safe procedure," explained Chief Shirreffs. "All materials used during the process are sterile, disposable and used only once…by you. There is no danger of contracting any disease, including AIDS. The pint of blood you donate will never be missed by your body, which manufactures an equivalent amount in 24 hours, but it could mean the difference between life or death to one or more recipients. When broken down into component parts, one single pint of blood can be used to heal and help the bodies of five different people."

To qualify as a blood donor, a person must between the ages of 17 and 75 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and not have donated blood within the last 56 days.

The fire department will provide refreshments for everyone who attends the blood drive. For more information, residents can contact the fire department by calling (516) 579-0900. Residents can also go online at www.NMFD-660.com.

"Remember, many people are counting on you to give blood," Chief Shirreffs said. "Be a life saver and help a person waiting for the precious gift of life."