The Manhattan Fire Department is the winner of the 21^st annual Manhattan Battle of the Badges Blood Drive. 

The friendly, three-way competition pitted Manhattan Fire Department Riley County EMS and Riley County Police Department against each other to recruit the most blood donors. Donors at the Battle of the Badges cast a vote for their favorite first responders.

Nearly 150 people gave blood during the drive at St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Manhattan on July 11 and 12.

Fire: 68 votes

Police: 54 votes

EMS: 47 votes

Full summer calendars and holiday plans may prevent regular donors from being able to give, but every donation counts in the mission to keep blood products stocked for patients who need them. While summer can be full of vacations and outdoor fun, it’s also recognized as a time of higher risk for car accidents, especially among teen drivers.

“A single car accident victim may require as many as 100 units of blood. These first responders’ help in raising awareness of the need for blood and bringing in donors during this busy time is crucial for patients in need,” said Matt Trotter, Regional Communications Director for the Red Cross serving Kansas and Oklahoma. “Congratulations to Manhattan Fire Department for winning this year’s Battle of the Badges.”

How to donate blood 
Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements. 

Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass^® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App. 

About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.