shortage across Long Island, North Massapequa Fire Department Chief Sean K. Abrams is urging residents to participate in the Department's semi-annual blood drive scheduled for Wed., Oct. 1, 3:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the North Massapequa Fire Department's Headquarters, 1000 Broadway in North Massapequa to help replenish low supplies at local blood banks.

To qualify as a blood donor, a person must be between the ages of 17 and 75 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and not have donated blood within the last 56 days.

The fire department will provide refreshments for everyone who attends the blood drive. For more information, residents can contact the fire department by calling 579-0900. Residents can also go online at www.NMFD-660.com.