When you donate blood, it’s subjected to rigorous testing for infectious diseases like HIV and Hepatitis B and C, and quickly separated into red blood cells, plasma and platelets. Blood centers also have to follow strict storage and refrigeration requirements, according to the blood centers Marketplace spoke to.

Rhode Islanders are being asked to roll up their sleeves and donate blood as the state works to strengthen its supply.

As Southern California continues to deal with major wildfires, the need for blood donations has risen as donors focus on other areas of need.