It’s been seven years since the Amtrak 501 derailment tragedy that killed three people and injured dozens. The community came together then to donate blood to help victims, and the date of the derailment, December 18, is now Washington State Blood Donor Day.

Blood donations were also essential after the 2015 Ride the Ducks Aurora Bridge crash. Five people were killed, and many others were injured in the tragic incident.

“It’s one of those events that so much information was coming in so fast that I jumped in my car and went to the scene directly,” said Seattle Fire Department Chief Harold Scoggins. “It was a really tragic scene. Several people lost their lives, and we transported dozens of others to the local hospitals.”

In times of tragedy, having a full blood supply is key, but blood is also needed year-round for surgeries, illnesses, accidents, shootings and other incidents.

“Oftentimes, out of sight, out of mind, so folks aren’t really thinking about it, but there are so many things that happen each and every day in this community and communities around the country,” Scoggins said.

This time of year is busy, and blood donation often isn’t top of mind. But it’s important for the community to continue to donate.

“Our ask is to make a little time, make an appointment, get registered and go and give some blood,” Scoggins said.

A full blood supply allows paramedics and healthcare providers to stay prepared. It takes time to process blood and transfer it where it needs to be.

“This is why we need ongoing and a steady giving process, so we have enough blood in the bank,” Scoggins said. “So, when we do have that big event, we’re ready for it.”

Make an appointment to donate today. Visit the Bloodworks Northwest website and select “schedule an appointment.”

Sponsored by Bloodworks Northwest

Segment Producer Rebecca Perry. Watch New Day Northwest 11 a.m. weekdays on KING 5 and streaming live on KING5.com. Contact New Day.