Student Council is partnering with the American Red Cross for the 2018 annual Blood Drive.

Red Cross volunteers will be set up in the back gym from 7:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 26.

According to the American Red Cross website, donors should “get a good night’s sleep, drink an extra 16 oz. of water or nonalcoholic fluids, and eat a healthy meal before your donation. Avoid fatty foods, such as hamburgers, fries or ice cream before donating.”

Fatty foods can affect the tests that can be done on blood, and if there’s too much fat in a donor’s system, the Red Cross won’t go through with the donation.

To prevent any negative side effects, avoid heavy lifting and vigorous exercise for the rest of the day. It is advised that if one is experiencing dizziness or lightheadedness after volunteering, he or she should stop what they are doing, and lie down until the feelings subside.

Any students interested in volunteering can sign up Wednesday, Jan. 16, and Thursday, Jan. 17, during lunch.