By Tim Mastro

The American Red Cross is searching for blood donors after a concerning drop in blood and platelet donations this summer.

The organization said donors are needed in August to prevent a blood shortage, and it is hoping to entice individuals to give blood with a chance to win free gas for a year and other promotions.

Anyone who donates Aug. 1-31 will be automatically entered for a chance to be one of three winners who will earn gas for a year, which the Red Cross said is a $6,000 value.

Further, everyone who comes to give blood or platelets next month will receive a $10 e-gift card to a merchant of his or her choice.

The Red Cross said its blood supply has declined by nearly 20% in recent weeks. The availability of blood products will continue to decline if donations do not increase, according to the agency, and people should not wait until they hear there is a blood shortage to give.

Type O negative donors and platelet donors are especially in need, the Red Cross noted, but all blood types are necessary to ensure a reliable supply.

“This is a concerning trend that may soon make it tougher to keep blood products stocked on hospital shelves,” said Paul Sullivan, Red Cross senior vice president of donor services. “By choosing a time to give now, donors can help pump up the blood supply for those in immediate need of lifesaving care and those who rely on transfusions for treatment.”

Donors can schedule an appointment using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting here or by calling 800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767). A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of ID are required at check-in.