Versiti urges blood donations after harsh winter disrupts Wisconsin supply

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin is calling on donors to help restore the state's blood supply after winter weather canceled appointments, closed donation centers and reduced turnout in recent weeks.

Kelli Smith, Versiti's director of training and customer experience, joined us on Friday, Feb. 27 to discuss details.

O-negative and O-positive donors are particularly in high demand, as those universal blood types can be transfused to all patients. Platelets are also in high demand and remain viable for only five to seven days outside the body.

Appointments are encouraged but walk-ins are welcome at Versiti's 11 donor centers across the state, including locations in Milwaukee, Wauwatosa, Greenfield, Waukesha, Racine and Kenosha.

Donations can be scheduled by clicking here or by calling (877) 232-4376.