Media Statement - Ottawa bus and train accident

September 18, 2013 (OTTAWA) – Canadian Blood Services extends its deepest sympathies to the families, victims and people of the train and bus accident that occurred in Ottawa earlier today.

We are currently supplying area hospitals with their requested orders of additional blood and blood products to treat the victims of this tragedy. We have been receiving numerous inquiries from people looking to donate blood. Those seeking to make such a humanitarian gesture are encouraged to do so by booking an appointment at a local blood donor clinic. While that blood may not specifically be directed to those currently in need, it is an honourable tribute that will save lives of hospital patients in Canada.

Every minute of every day, someone in Canada needs blood—in most cases, blood from more than just one generous donor. A strong national inventory of blood puts us in a good position to deal with catastrophic events and mass casualties should they happen.

When an accident happens, it is the blood that is already on the shelves in hospitals from coast to coast - blood from regular, committed blood donors – that first goes to treat those who are injured.

The people who rush in to help after a serious accident are helping us replenish the blood supply. This is why we need regular, repeat blood donors to help maintain a strong inventory of blood to ensure hospital patients get blood when they need it most.

To book an appointment to donate blood, please visit us at www.blood.ca or call 1 888 2 DONATE (1-888-236-6283).