RINER – Red-blooded firefighters are unquestioned heroic first responders and the Red Cross is renowned for its work on behalf of the human body’s life-preserving liquid.
Both came together last week as the Riner Fire Department hosted a blood drive coordinated by the New River Valley area Red Cross. Local citizens, by appointment, lined up to share the gracious gift which in recent times always seems to be in short supply.
“I am happy to be able to donate blood,” said Riner resident Greg Cook. “Any of us might be in a situation to need it, or a family member or friend – anyone in need. For a long time, I was a regular donor, usually doing this at my church and now I plan to be donating regularly again. I would encourage anyone to do this.”
Sandy Myers, area Red Cross account manager, said there are more blood drives planned for the area.
“We are very pleased to be here at the Riner Fire Station and also plan to have blood drives at the local high schools, including a public blood drive at Auburn High School on Oct. 21. We will be at Blacksburg High for two days, Oct. 28-29 (for students only) and at Eastern Montgomery with another public blood drive on Sept. 16. We are also working on a date to visit Christiansburg High this fall.”
All of the Red Cross personnel at Riner were phlebotomists trained to collect blood samples from patients for testing and analysis, ensuring that blood is drawn safely and efficiently for medical purposes.
A brief medical review is given to all potential donors, snacks are provided and donors are asked to remain for observation briefly. In addition, an appreciation gift (these change by location) is given to each donor after completion of the process.
Staff members on hand at Riner included Cynthia Deeds, Heather Trail, Samantha Mitchell, Jeri Poff and Sandy Myers.
Riner Fire Department, which is a volunteer organization, is directed by Chief Mike King, Assistant Chief Billy Venth, Captain Adam Quesenberry, First Lieutenant Josh Martin and Second Lieutenant Scott Howell.
“We have a variety of vehicles for all types of situations,” said Martin, on hand for the Red Cross drive, along with firefighter Isiah Moore. “From the large pumper to side-by-side four wheelers with smaller water capacity, as well as a 2,000-gallon capacity tanker and a pair of response pickup trucks, we work to maintain a fleet for most any emergency situation.”
Martin noted that the Riner Department works closely with the local rescue squad, which is housed in the former fire department building.
“I guess you could say that, like the Red Cross, we love to help others and we have about 30 members that feel that way. Of course, we are always ready to welcome new members and anyone interested in applying to join us can call 540-392-0115.”
The Riner Women’s Auxiliary is also very active in department activities.
It is a possibility that in addition to the local high school drives, the Red Cross may also work with the Riner Fire Department in the future.
CAPTION:
Greg Cook of Riner, a volunteer blood donor, came to the Riner Fire Department to help with the recent Red Cross Blood drive. Assisting were (l) Sandy Myers, Heather Trail, Samantha Mitchell, Cynthia Deeds and Jeri Poff. Photo by Larry Hypes
