2nd annual Carson City Battle of the Badges blood drive Wednesday

Every drop counts for the second annual Carson City Battle of the Badges Blood Drive.

The Carson City Fire Department and Sheriff’s Office are saving lives again during this good-natured blood drive at the Carson City Community Center Gymnasium on Wednesday from noon to 6:30 p.m.

Officers, staff and community members roll up their sleeves to see which department can collect the most blood and claim the 2016 trophy. Carson City Fire Department hopes to recapture the winner’s trophy this year.

Carson City Battle of the Badges Blood Drive donors will receive a free T-shirt as well as Hero Rewards, plus donors can enter to win the 10th annual Driving for Donors 2016 Toyota Giveaway sponsored by the Northern Nevada Toyota Dealers with more amazing raffle prizes provided by: Reds Old 395 Grill, Les Schwab, and C-A-L Ranch Stores.

Donors can schedule their donation time to give blood at www.bloodhero.com, use sponsor code: “CarsonCommunity” or by calling 1-800-696-4484.

Blood donation takes about an hour from check-in to refreshments. Donors can save about 20 minutes by completing their Fast Track Health History the day they donate at www.UnitedBloodServices.org. Please bring a photo ID. Walk-ins are welcome.

Volunteer blood donors must be at least 17 years old, 16 with a signed United Blood Services parental consent form. Weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in good health. Additional height/weight requirements apply to donors 22 and younger. For more information, visit www.UnitedBloodServices.org. For eligibility questions, call 1-800-289-4923.