Danbury Police, Firefighters, To Square Off In 'Battle Of The Badges'

DANBURY, CT — Danbury first responders are going head-to-head in the 3rd Annual Battle of the Badges Blood Drive & Emergency Preparedness Day.

On Wednesday, April 24, the Danbury Police and Fire Departments, the Office of Emergency Management, and Health and Human Services will work to recruit donors and see which team can save the most lives by donating blood.

Last year, the Danbury Battle of the Badges Blood Drive collected over 100 donations of lifesaving blood. The Health and Human Services Department together with Emergency Management remain undefeated recruiting the most donors.

Community preparedness resources will be available at the event, including "Stop the Bleed," "Red Cross Homes Made Safer," and hands-only CPR. The Danbury Police, Danbury Fire, Danbury Emergency Medical Services, and the Red Cross will bring emergency and rescue vehicles for a "touch- a-truck" event, making this a family-focused event.

The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Danbury Fair Mall. The blood drive will be on the upper level between the Apple Store and Lululemon. The emergency preparedness and "touch-a-truck" events will be directly below on the lower level.

Organizers are calling the Battle of the Badges "more than a competition," with participation essential to maintain a robust blood supply for vital patient care this spring.

"Partnering with the city of Danbury for another Battle of the Badges Blood Drive fills us with enthusiasm," said Cheryl Engels, Board Member of the American Red Cross Connecticut Chapter. “It’s a meaningful opportunity to engage with our community and valiant first responders, answering the vital call to save lives.”

Danbury residents can join with their first responders to help save lives by signing up to donate online at redcrossblood.org and use sponsor code COD, or call to make an appointment at 1-800-Red Cross (1-800-733-2767).

All blood types are needed, but type O blood is especially valued.