Saving lives in our blood

Run by Australian Red Cross Lifeblood, the Emergency Services Blood Challenge began on 1 June and will be pumping to 31 August 2024.

This morning Deputy Commissioner of Police Linda Williams joined senior officials from a range of emergency services to launch the three-month initiative, aimed at giving winter blood stocks a much-needed boost.

“Through the nature of our work, we respond to numerous incidents where people need blood because they’ve been seriously injured,” Deputy Commissioner Williams said.

“Our people are known for going above and beyond and helping the community is in our blood.

“South Australia Police achieved the highest number of donations in SA last year, with 534 donations, and we are aiming for a round 600 this year.”

Overall, 1453 donations were made by South Australian emergency services in 2023, with competitors now vying for a 1550 goal – helping to save 4650 lives.

SAPOL will compete against SA-based Australian Federal Police, SA Country Fire Service, SA Ambulance Service, St John Ambulance, SA Metropolitan Fire Service, SA Department of Correctional Services, SA State Emergency Service, Royal Flying Doctor Service and Aviation Rescue Fire Fighting Service – Airservices Australia.

Deputy Commissioner Williams encouraged anyone able to donate, whether or not they wear a uniform.

“Helping others is the collective and unified purpose of emergency services and you too can roll up your sleeves and make a difference,” she added.

“Friends and family of our members are also able to donate via the South Australia Police Lifeblood team, and we thank them for joining our efforts to meet the ongoing need for donations.”

Five metropolitan donor centres: Adelaide (Regent Donor Centre), Marion, Port Adelaide, Noarlunga, and Modbury are open for donations. Pop-up and mobile donor centres are also operating in metropolitan and regional areas.

Only donations made during the challenge period (1 June - 31 August) count towards the tally, however, Lifeblood Teams operate year-round.

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