First responders want everyone to consider giving the gift of life

Just before Canada Day, the Sirens For Life Campaign kicked off in Sudbury. In the next two months, emergency responder agencies will battle it out to see who can bring in the most plasma donations to Canadian Blood Services. (Alana Everson/CTV News)

Just before Canada Day, the Sirens For Life Campaign kicked off in Sudbury.

In the next two months, emergency responder agencies will battle it out to see who can bring in the most plasma donations to Canadian Blood Services.

"It's a very important initiative to take part in,” said deputy fire chief Nathan Melin.

“Giving blood, there is a great need for it. There is a shortage in Canada right now so just a great way to give back not only to your community but to the entire nation.”

Officials said plasma donated in Sudbury is made into life-saving medications for local patients and others in Canada.

The agency said national donor numbers are down compared to pre-pandemic stats.

"Over the period of COVID our donor base has decreased by 31,000 donors,” said," Teri-Mai Armstrong, business development manager at Canadian Blood Services in Sudbury.

“When a small percentage of the population donates, that is really detrimental to our business. And so we are really looking for new and returning donors to come out and give this summer.”

Officials with Canadian Blood Services said citizens can also take part in Sirens for Life by donating plasma in support of one of the emergency responder teams before Sept. 9.