WHO: Rapid City Police Department (RCPD), Rapid City Fire Department (RCFD)
WHAT: Tug of War competition. Representatives of RCPD, RCFD and United Blood Services will be available for interview.
WHEN: Tuesday, June 19, 10 am
WHERE: Rushmore Mall parking lot near Texas Roadhouse, 2200 N. Maple Ave., Rapid City
WHY: To generate a friendly competitive spirit between the Rapid City fire and police departments in an effort to encourage community members to give blood at the “Guns and Hoses” blood drive at the mall June 19-22. Donors make their donation in honor of Team Law or Team Fire to help offset a typical drop in donations during the summer months.
The competition that matters most, however, is the battle over who can recruit the most blood donors to the four-day blood drive. In 2017, Team Law tied up the series 6 – 6. This year’s winner will take home the traveling trophy and bragging rights, but in the end the entire community wins, teaming up to save lives together. Last year’s event brought in a record 905 units of blood to help patients. This year’s goal is 1,000.
The “Guns and Hoses” four-day blood drive runs inside the mall near Buckle:
| Tuesday – Thursday, June 19 – 21 | 10:30 am – 6:30 pm
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| Friday, June 22 | 7:30 am – 3:30 pm |
All donors will receive a free Guns and Hoses T-shirt while supplies last, enjoy free food and be registered to win prizes.
To donate blood, volunteers must be at least 16 years old (16 and 17-year-old donors need a minor donor permit which is available online) and be in good health.
Donors can save time and fill out their Fast Track Health History Questionnaire online at unitedbloodservices.org the day of their donation.
Find the hero in you. To make an appointment call 605.646.2625 or visit bloodhero.com and use sponsor code: gunsnhosesrc. Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome.
