Flanders (N.J.) Firefighters Sponsor Blood Drive on Feb. 27

FLANDERS, N.J. - Feb. 7, 2014 - PRLog -- Flanders firefighters and emergency medical personnel will sponsor a blood drive from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Feb. 27 at the Flanders firehouse, 27 Main St., Flanders. Donors will be helping the area address a major blood shortage while supporting the Flanders Fire Company #1 and Rescue Squad.

“The Flanders Fire Company #1 and Rescue Squad is all about neighbors helping neighbors,” said Doug Fenichel, president of association that oversees the fire company. “This is another opportunity to do that, and you don’t need to be a firefighter.”

The blood drive will be conducted by the Blood Center of New Jersey, which supplies many area hospitals with blood and blood products.  Donors will have the opportunity to take advantage of one of the Blood Center’s services that allows contributing twice as much blood, but returns plasma and other products to the donor so they actually leave feeling better.

In addition, the Blood Center will make a contribution to the Flanders Fire Company #1 and Rescue Squad if 30 or more people donate blood.

“We hope people will stop by and donate blood,” said Fenichel. “It’s an opportunity to do two good things for the community at once: give blood and help the fire company earn a donation. We can certainly sure the extra funds.”

Fenichel said people can make a reservation by calling (973) 676-4700 x 151.

“Even if you don’t call ahead, you’re welcome to stop by,” said Fenichel. “The Blood Center of New Jersey will accommodate you.”

The Flanders Fire Company and Rescue Squad No. 1 provides fire protection and emergency medical services to residents and businesses in Flanders and, through mutual aid, surrounding towns. It is made up of about 50 members, all of whom receive training in fire suppression, rescue, hazardous materials response, homeland security issues and emergency medical services. The fire company operates two fire engines, one tower truck, one heavy rescue, a brush-and-foam truck, two ambulances, a multiple-casualty unit and a mass decontamination unit.

In addition, the fire company offers public education services including lectures, demonstrations, training and a trailer that safely simulates a smoke-filled home. For information about membership, donations or public education, call (973) 584-7805 or click on http://www.flandersfire.org.