The American Red Cross encourages eligible blood donors to start a lifesaving habit by becoming a regular blood donor this year, starting with National Blood Donor Month in January.

January is a challenging time for blood donations. Inclement weather can result in blood drive cancellations, and cold and flu season may cause some donors to be unable to make or keep blood donation appointments, according to a release from the Red Cross.

National Blood Donor Month, celebrated in January since 1970, raises awareness of the need for blood during the winter and throughout the year, while honoring those who roll up a sleeve to help patients in need.

Blood has a shelf life of just 42 days. Patients must rely on volunteer blood donors to constantly replenish the supply. Regular blood donations are needed all year long.

Donors of all blood types are needed, especially those with O negative, A negative, and B negative. Type O negative is the universal blood type and can be transfused to patients with any blood type. Types A and B negative can be transfused to Rh positive or negative patients.

To learn more about donating blood and to schedule an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Local blood drives are being held in:

— East Berne on Jan. 24 from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Helderberg Ambulance Inc., 978 Cole Hill Road, Route 443; and

— Guilderland on Jan. 20 from noon to 6 p.m., at the Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Ave.