Orange police laid down their arms in solidarity with officers from across NSW by donating blood to boost stocks that will be required during the festive season.
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Operation Bleed4Blue is an annual blood drive that was launched in 2018 following the stabbing of Detective Sergeant John Breda at Maroubra on Australia Day 2018, with more than 100 bags of blood needed to keep him alive.
According to Lifeblood, blood demand is at a 10 year-high and the festive period is a challenging time of the year for blood supplies so police in Orange are throwing their support behind the challenge.
Acting Inspector Andrew Barnes from Orange Police Station said the officers understood the need for the blood donations.
"As first responders, police know all too well how important blood donations are for people who have been injured as a result of crime, crashes or accidents," Acting Inspector Barnes said.
Orange Blood Donor Centre is calling for 200 blood donors every week in December, with the days between Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve of most critical need.
It comes as hospitals are also reporting increased presentations in emergency, obstetrics, and surgery.
Lifeblood spokesperson Liesa Pansini said although December is a busy time, blood drives provide life-saving donations.
"The need for blood never takes a break and donated blood will be needed every day between now and Christmas to treat many sick and seriously ill people across Australia," Mrs Pansini said.
To donate blood, visit lifeblood.com.au or call 13 14 95.
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