Blood services critical needs

United Blood Services is in desparate need of O-type blood.

"We're at a critical stage," said Nyla Emerson, spokeswoman. "We're not canceling or rescheduling surgeries but at our current state it could happen."

Emerson encouraged everyone who is healthy, 17 years of age, weighing at least 110 pounds, with O-negative or O-positive blood types to come in to any of the locations and donate.

"Since the first of year, even with all the media attention we've received, it has not kept our blood levels stable," she said Wednesday afternoon.

United Blood normally has a two-day supply - which is about 250 units - on hand. Emerson said that currently there is less than one day's supply available to area hospital, clinics and patients.

The Carson City center is located 256 E. Winnie Lane. Call 887-9111. In Reno, 1125 Terminal Way. Call 324-6454.

"This is a plea to people to respond immediately," she said.