First responders and blood banks are preparing for a busy Memorial Day weekend.

They're expecting a high number of paramedic calls, vehicle accidents, and a need for blood.

EMS workers say the best way to help them is to not need them in the first place - but if you do end up calling them, give the workers time and space.

"Please give us room," said Shawn Wroblewski, a paramedic with Millcreek Paramedic Services.

"Let us work. Let us ask the questions that we need to. Let the people that we're asking the questions answer for themselves. If not, we'll ask other people around the questions we need answered for the person [we're helping] if they can't respond for themselves."

And with the possibility of accidents higher this weekend than usual, blood banks are expecting a bigger need for blood.

"During the holidays we definitely see an increase in the need for blood and blood products," said Erika DePalma,  Community Relations Specialist at the Community Blood Bank of Northwest Pennsylvania and Western New York.

"That may be because people are traveling and accidents happen, and we do really encourage everyone to drive safe. And if you're going to gatherings, please make sure that you have a designated driver, and that you're going slow and being cautious."

If you donate blood to the Community Blood Bank between May 30th and June 3rd, you'll be eligible for a chance to win Taylor Swift tickets for her "Eras" tour in Pittsburgh.

You can donate at the Community Blood Bank at 2646 Peach St.

You can also donate at the following community donations:

  • North East Community - Sander's Market on Tuesday, May 30th, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
  • Carpenters Union 420 - Girard American Legion on Tuesday, May 30th, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
  • Edinboro/McKean VFW Post 740 on Thursday, June 1st, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM
  • Park United Methodist on Friday, June 2nd, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM