Here’s a small way to help California wildfire victims: Donate blood

United Blood Services of the Central Coast is asking for San Luis Obispo County and Santa Maria residents to donate blood, in light of the devastating wildfires raging through Southern California this week.

Operations at donor centers in the area of Ventura and Santa Barbara were interrupted this week because of the poor air quality and intermittent electricity outages from the Thomas Fire, according to a news release. Several blood drives were also canceled as a result of the blaze.

The ability to secure adequate blood donations in these areas will likely be impacted for several days and possibly the weeks ahead, according to the agency.

To replenish the blood supply, United Blood Services is asking donors in San Luis Obispo and Santa Maria to make an appointment to give blood. Donors can schedule their donation by calling 805-543-4290, extension “0” or by visiting www.blood4life.org.

Volunteer blood donors must be at least 16 years old, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in good health. Additional height/weight requirements apply to donors 22 and younger, and donors ages 16 to 17 must have signed permission from a parent or guardian.

For more information, visit unitedbloodservices.org.

This story was originally published December 9, 2017 at 10:53 AM with the headline "Here’s a small way to help California wildfire victims: Donate blood."