The Shakopee Fire Department is hosting a blood drive Tuesday, Jan. 26.

The American Red Cross has an urgent need for blood and platelet donations to help prevent a shortage of blood products this January. Blood and platelet donors of all types are needed to reverse the declining supply and help ensure blood products continue to be available.

Eligible blood donors with types O, B negative and A negative blood are encouraged to donate double red cells where available. During a double red cell donation, two units of red blood cells are collected while most of the plasma and platelets are returned to the donor.

Schedule an appointment between noon and 6 p.m. at www.redcrossblood.org. Enter sponsor code: ShakopeeFD. Please bring photo ID or donor card.