CEDAR LAKE | With six of the eight blood types below the minimum blood-bank levels in the Indiana-Ohio region, the American Red Cross has issued an appeal for blood donations in northern Indiana.

"It's very concerning," said American Red Cross spokeswoman Amanda Banks. "We are concerned about being prepared for an emergency."

She said blood levels had not dipped below the minimum level in more than a year -- until now.

The Red Cross has scheduled a blood drive from 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Thursday at the Knights of Columbus, 13039 Wicker Ave., Cedar Lake.

Northwest Indiana falls into the Indiana-Ohio region that covers northern Indiana and seven counties in Ohio. Since last Thursday, the region has been asking donors for help because of the low supplies. Banks said the minimum level for each type is a three to five day supply, and there are at least three types that have less than a half-day supply.

The region supplies blood to about 60 hospitals for daily needs such as surgeries and other emergencies. Banks said the Red Cross needs to collect about 500 units a day to stay at minimum levels.

Banks said giving blood will take about an hour if the donor meets the requirements of being at least 17, weighing a minimum of 110 pounds and being in good general health. Donors can donate every eight weeks.