Firies and ambos roll up their sleeves

The CFA is encouraging its members and the community to roll up their sleeves to save lives for the 2024 Emergency Services Blood Drive.

Ambulance Victoria (AV) paramedics and staff are also joining the drive.

The Blood Drive, held annually by Australian Red Cross Lifeblood from June to the end of August, calls on emergency service workers to compete in a bit of healthy competition by providing the highest number of blood and plasma donations.

CFA staff and members joined paramedics and emergency service partners at the Melbourne Donor Centre.

CFA Deputy Chief Officer Garry Cook said he hoped members and the community got behind the challenge this year to help save more lives.

"The need for blood is ongoing and one donation can save up to three lives so it's a small amount of your time for an incredible cause," Garry said.

AV Metropolitan Director Regional and Clinical Operations Michael Georgiou said blood products are also crucial in pre-hospital care and the blood drive is a good reminder to first responders to donate.

"Our paramedics use blood to treat patients in certain life-threatening emergencies, including road incidents and other major trauma," he said.

"Having access to blood supplies is often crucial to give our patients the best chance of survival.

"I urge everyone at AV, as well as the broader community, to check their eligibility to donate and to make an appointment at their nearest donor centre."

Last year, the Emergency Services Blood Drive saw almost 14,000 donations made.

To book a donation, visit www.lifeblood.com.au, call 13 14 95 or download the donate blood app.

To find a donor centre near you visit www.lifeblood.com.au/donor-centre.