BELLINGHAM, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Medical providers are putting out an urgent call for blood donors in our region.

Bloodworks Northwest issued a Code Red emergency this week due to a critical need for blood donations. The nonprofit is asking anyone who is in good health to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. It adds that Type O and platelet donors are especially needed.

A Code Red is given after blood levels are at emergency levels for four straight days.

Bloodworks Northwest says the declaration stems from a lack of donors paired with increased shipments of blood to people impacted by natural disasters, including severe weather storms. It currently has less than half the appointments needed to maintain a safe supply of blood, with about 25,000 open slots through February.

There are four donation centers in Whatcom County, three in Bellingham and one in Lynden.

You can find a link to book an appointment here.