It’s the dog days of summer and many are looking for a way to escape the heat. By making an appointment to donate blood through the American Red Cross you can enjoy cool beverages and great treats while helping others.

“By donating blood, you can help patients across the country who need blood products ever day,” said Geoff Kaufmann, CEO of the Red Cross Blood Services region.

Whatever your reason is for donating — helping others, a family member who needed blood or enjoying the post-donation refreshments — please give this summer and help the Red Cross maintain a stable blood supply. Make an appointment to donate today.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities:

 Aug. 22, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Fairlane Community Center, 1031 Bridge Ave., Albert Lea

 Aug. 26, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Crossroads Evangelical Free Church, 3402 Hoeger Lane, Albert Lea

 Aug. 27, 1 to 7 p.m. at Crossroads Evangelical Free Church

 Aug. 28, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Crossroads Evangelical Free Church

How to donate blood

Call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543) or visit givebloodgivelife.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed. A blood donor card or driver’s license, or two other forms of identification are required. Eligible donors must be at least 17 years old, or 16 years old with a signed Red Cross parental/guardian consent form, must weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health.