Mississippi Blood Services is asking for blood donations, as its inventory has hit a “critical level” this summer.

“Summer time always sees a drop in blood donations as schools are out and families are often out of town on vacation,” an MBS press release states. “But the need for blood never takes a vacation — and often during the summer it increases.”

MBS is seeking people with all blood types to donate whole blood, double red cells and platelets. Donors must be at least 16 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and have a valid form of identification.

For more information, call 601-368-2673 or visit msblood.com to locate a nearby blood drive.