BELLINGHAM, Wash. – If you are willing and able to donate blood, now is the time to do it.

Bloodworks Northwest has issued a “Code Red” alert because of shortage of donated blood.

Donations have dropped off because of winter weather and the holidays, and transfusions are depleting the supply faster than it is being replenished.

Hospitals are being asked to conserve their supplies, especially of Type O blood and platelets.

Most healthy adults can donate blood every 56 days and are asked to make and keep an appointment as soon as possible.

Bloodworks Northwest in Bellingham is located in Bakerview Square at 410 W Bakerview Rd #117.