Most of us are not firefighters, doctors or law officers, and it’s rare that we have an opportunity to save someone from drowning or choking. But each of us can be a hero and save a person’s life by giving blood to the American Red Cross. It’s that simple.

The regional supplies of type O blood are insufficient to handle emergencies, just as we enter the busy holiday season. Of course, all types are needed.

The American Red Cross Southern Region provides blood to about 140 hospitals and healthcare facilities. About 1,200 units must be donated daily to supply them.

This time of year, people are on vacation and so donations drop. In addition, there is a greater possible need due to accidents. Red Cross officials were warning on Friday that unless donations increased, hospitals may be forced to delay or cancel elective surgeries.

Giving blood is not only easy; it’s safe, too. The local Red Cross also is making it convenient.

Today alone, you have an opportunity to donate at one of two locations: Valdosta First United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.; and Valdosta Community Donor Center, 2517 Bemiss Road, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. If saving lives wasn’t enough, donors at these two sites will get a free T-shirt, too.