RAPID CITY, S.D. — For the past week, Vitalant Blood Services – along with the Rapid City Police and Fire Departments – have been collecting donations for the 16th annual blood drive.
The event, which is one of the biggest of the year for Vitalant, started with the Rapid City Police in the lead over the years, with a score of eight wins to the Fire Department’s seven.
Now we’ll be starting next year’s blood drive with a tie between the agencies.
The two departments were neck-in-neck in donations for several days, with the Fire Department having a lead over the police.
The Fire Department took the win this year by 48 donors – 336 to 288.
Vitalant says having the competition between the two groups of emergency responders has always been a fun way to encourage the community to donate.
“They make it so much fun for our donors. You come in to sign in, and even if you think you know who you’re going to donate for, they give you a good run for your money on why they think you should donate for them. We actually had somebody yesterday who was signing in on one sheet and a law enforcement gentleman convinced them to change their vote and sign in,” said Tori Robbins, Vitalant Communications Manager.
Guns and Hoses takes place at the beginning of summer each year when Vitalant typically sees a drop in their supply. They say this years need is higher than average.
“We strive to have four-days on hand of each blood type, and in some cases, we’re below two days on that…so it’s really critical this year more than any other year that we have this positioned to help with that summer blood supply and get us out of the critical-need situation,” Robbins said.
600 units of blood were donated during the 16th annual event.
The Rapid City Fire Department took the trophy home after the 16th Annual Guns N’ Hoses Blood Drive against the Rapid City Police Department. Team Fire won by 48 donors this year. 600 units of blood was collected this year for those in need. pic.twitter.com/xmG1NxDzWb
— Rapid City Fire Dept (@RapidCityFire) June 25, 2021
If you weren’t able to make time for this years Guns and Hoses, not to worry – Vitalant would still love to take your donation.
Visit Vitalant online by CLICKING HERE. You can even enter your zip code and possibly find a mobile donation site near you.
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