Leaves aren’t the only thing falling during this time of the year — blood levels have reached critical and emergency lows. That’s something many of us can help with, especially this month.

A continuing critical need for blood products to ensure patient care is affecting blood levels at hospitals throughout Alabama, blood suppliers including The American Red Cross and LifeSouth Community Blood Centers reported this week. Donors of all blood types are asked to give now to keep blood supply levels rising after a summer shortage. Type O blood donors and those giving platelets are especially needed.

A steady increase in lifesaving blood products is vital to ensuring hospitals stay ready for any situation this fall. As National Preparedness Month — a month that is also promoted specifically in Alabama by Gov. Kay Ivey — continues, the Red Cross highlighted the importance of having a strong supply of blood products already on hand for disasters and emergencies of all kinds and to meet the needs of patients every day.

“Alabamians understand that disasters can strike without sufficient warning, and being prepared is the best defense we have,” Ivey said in making the proclamation. “During National Preparedness Month, I encourage everyone to take the time to create a plan, gather essential supplies and ensure your family knows what to do in an emergency. A little preparation now can save lives later.”

That preparation includes having sufficient blood levels on hand as needed. Now is the time to book an appointment and help patients counting on lifesaving transfusions. To schedule a time to give blood or platelets, visit RedCrossBlood.org or www.lifesouth.org as both organizations work to ease blood shortages in Limestone County: LifeSouth is a non-profit community blood bank serving more than 150 hospitals in Alabama, Florida, Georgia and Tennessee. The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood.

It’s also likely you’ll be eligible to help — most people are: to give blood you must be in good health, 17 years old or older (or 16 years old with parental permission), weigh at least 110 pounds and show a valid photo I.D.

Schedule a donation today for those who need it tomorrow.