Tomorrow, as part of the Red25 Emergency Services Blood Challenge and International Missing Types Day, Tasmania Police’s newest recruits will help save lives in a different way, through donating blood.

Acknowledging the importance of blood donations, especially in a critical mid-winter month, the group of 18 will be donating together at the Hobart Donor Centre.

With more than 4,000 additional donors needed across the state, Tasmania Police Commissioner, Darren Hine will be encouraging everyone to roll up their sleeves and donate blood.

“The Red 25 Emergency Services Blood Challenge runs from 1 June to 31 August. Tasmania Police will compete against Tasmania Fire Service, SES and Ambulance Tasmania to see who can make the most donations,” said Commissioner Hine.

“Last year Tasmania Police made 155 donations which was a great effort, but the TFS beat us by one donation. We’re hoping to get the title back this year so I encourage all officers to get behind this friendly Challenge”.

“Through the course of their work, police officers respond to numerous incidents where people need blood because they’ve been seriously injured in a crash or as the result of violence,” said Commissioner Hine.

“As police officers, in addition to our focus on road safety and violence prevention, we can do more for victims.  We can give blood.”

“Every donation can save up to three lives; it’s in our blood, and it’s in yours too.”

“We urge everyone to follow our lead and help save lives this winter”.