With hospital shelves running low on the most-needed blood products, the American Red Cross is urging donors across Alabama's Gulf Coast to roll up their sleeves and give blood this month.

Type O blood is in especially high demand, according to the Red Cross, which says summer activities and severe weather can combine to disrupt donation efforts and drain reserves. Trauma patients and others in emergency situations often require multiple transfusions, making it vital to keep the supply steady.

"Scheduling and keeping appointments now can make a lifesaving difference," the organization said in a statement.

All blood types are needed, and those who don't know theirs can find out after donating. Donors can make an appointment by visiting www.RedCrossBlood.org, calling (800) 733-2767 or using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

The Red Cross is also offering special thank-you gifts as an incentive. Anyone who donates by July 14 will receive an exclusive pair of Red Cross x goodr sunglasses, complete with a blood type sticker for a personal touch. Details are available at www.RedCrossBlood.org/goodr.

Donors who give between July 15 and 31 will get a Fandango Movie Reward by email to enjoy a summer blockbuster on the Red Cross. More information is at www.RedCrossBlood.org/July.

Upcoming blood drives in Baldwin County include:

Fairhope:

July 30, 1-5 p.m., Fairhope Christian Church, 349 Fairwood Blvd

Foley:

July 16, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Foley Community St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 400 N. Alston St.

Gulf Shores:

July 16, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Gulf Shores Utilities, 149 East 16th Ave.

July 22, 1-5 p.m., Gulf Shores First Presbyterian Fellowship Hall, 309 East 21st Ave.

July 31, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Peace Community Church, 8250 Roscoe Rd.

Orange Beach:

July 31, 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Orange Beach City Hall, 4099 Orange Beach Blvd.