The American Red Cross has come across a potential shortage with blood donors.

The most needed blood type donations have been faced with a donation deficit. The blood types included O negative, B negative and A negative.

Along with those, the shelves for platelet donations and AB plasma have also been confronted with a possible inadequacy.

The amount of donations stocked on the Red Cross’ shelves has been low and may even unveil an emergency due to the lack of contributions.

Donors who are eligible to give for these types of blood have been encouraged to set up an appointment at a blood drive near them. Even donors who do not have these types of bloods are encouraged to donate. Every donation saves lives and counts.

With fully stocked shelves, the Red Cross can ensure the safety of patients and guarantee that in each case, a patient would be able to receive the blood that they need with no hassle.

“Summer can be among the most challenging times of the year to collect enough blood and platelet donations — yet the need for blood doesn’t take a summer break,” Sue Thesenga, the external communications manager for the Red Cross North Central Blood Services, said. “We’re now asking donors who haven’t donated, and those who are eligible again, to make an appointment to give now to help ensure blood products are available for patients.”

An upcoming blood drive venue in Albert Lea is from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday at Hy-Vee.

Donors can see if they are allowed to give blood at redcrossblood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS.