FARGO — The American Red Cross is asking blood donors to make an appointment now to help maintain a steady supply for patients who need it most.

Officials say that while emergencies often grab headlines, the need for blood is constant.

Donation rates typically drop in October as people settle into busy fall routines, and upcoming school breaks can make scheduling donations more difficult.

"We never know the needs of when our blood supply is going to be needed, right? That’s just a natural disaster. It’s going to happen," said Kimberly Vosseteig, director of the Red Cross Minnesota and Dakota Region. "That’s a car accident that’s going to happen. We never know when that’s going to happen."

To make a blood donation appointment, visit www.redcrossblood.org.

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