Emergency departments compete to save lives | Community [Video]

(ST. JOSEPH, Mo.)  Monday, September 9th, was the first day of the Battle of the Badges blood drive for the Community Blood Center.  Located at the Firefighters Union Hall, this rivalry between the St Joseph Police Department, Sheriff’s office, EMS, Fire Department, and Highway Patrol, had the departments competing to collect the most life-saving donations. 

St. Joseph Fire Captain Skyler White explains, “It’s basically just a collaboration of us to more or less challenges, to try to get as many people as we can to donate blood for our community. And ultimately, that’s the goal. No matter which side wins, the goal is to raise blood for our community.” 

The winning department will earn bragging rights for the year, with the ultimate victory being the number of lives saved through community contributions. The drive comes at a critical time, as the summer months can strain the blood supply and lead …