This July, the American Red Cross continues to stress that blood and platelet donors are critically needed right now to support lifesaving transfusions this summer.

Donors of all blood types are in demand, especially those with type O blood and donors giving platelets.

More than a quarter of all blood products each year are used in critical care and emergency room cases, highlighting the importance of blood and platelet donors.

For the month, the Red Cross has teamed up with Universal Pictures for the theatrical release of “Twisters” to help avoid a summer blood shortage.

All who come to give blood or platelets through July 31 will get a Fandango movie ticket by email. Plus, those who come to give by July 14 will also receive a one-of-a-kind “Twisters” and Red Cross umbrella, while supplies last.

To give blood or platelets visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.