Currently, the American Red Cross has a less than a five-day supply on hand, a critically low level.

WASHINGTON — The local blood supply is getting dangerously low, so the American Red Cross is offering a sweet reward for anyone who donates by Aug. 31.

Donors of all blood types will receive a $5 Amazon gift card claim code through email.

There is a drop in blood donations during the summer months as families go away for vacation.

Currently, the American Red Cross has a less than a five-day supply on hand, a critically low level.

External Communications Manager Bernadette Jay says the organization is responsible for about 40 percent of the nation’s blood supply and needs to collect more than 500 units of blood in the Washington D.C. region every day.

“Blood is not something that can be manufactured. It must be donated,” she said. “We really need donors to roll up their sleeves and help those patients that are in critical need.”

To schedule an appointment to donate, use the free Blood Donor App, visit www.redcrossblood.org/give/drive/driveSearch.jsp, or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

You can donate blood through the Inova Blood Donor Services.

Eligibility requirements: