Every two seconds someone in this country needs lifesaving blood. That’s why the American Red Cross is encouraging Roundup residents to make an appointment to donate during a community blood drive at the Musselshell County Ambulance Station on May 4.

The Roundup drive runs from 1 to 6 p.m., and people are asked to make an appointment in advance by calling 800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767) or visiting RedCrossBlood.org. A donation takes about an hour from start to finish and can save up to three lives.

“There is no substitute for blood, so we rely on the generosity of our donors to keep hospital shelves stocked,” said Thomas Hensley, account manager, Red Cross of Montana.

Each year the Red Cross of Montana collects more than 37,700 units of blood at 2,000 drives across the state. Those blood products are used in more than 30 Montana hospitals and medical centers, helping cancer patients, expecting mothers, those undergoing surgery, accident victims and countless others.

Red Cross blood drives follow the highest standards of safety. Precautions -- including temperature checks, social distancing and face masks – are being used to keep donors and staff safe.