IRON MOUNTAIN — The American Red Cross asks people to book a time to give blood or platelets now to address a recent drop in donation appointments that could lead to fewer transfusions for patients in the weeks ahead.

Type O blood donors are especially needed to ensure a strong blood supply.

Download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, go to RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities include from noon to 5 p.m. Thursday at Florence County Rescue, 747 Lake Ave., Florence, Wis.