Burnsville Fire Department continues lifesaving pre-hospital blood program, launched earlier this year
BURNSVILLE, MN. — In recognition of National First Responders Day, Memorial Blood Centers (MBC) is celebrating the Burnsville Fire Department’s pre-hospital transfusion program, a pioneering initiative that is already saving lives in the community.
Launched on January 14, 2025, the program equips Burnsville paramedics to deliver whole blood transfusions in the field, ensuring trauma patients receive critical care before reaching the hospital. Since the launch, Burnsville Fire Department has administered nine transfusions, aligning closely with their projections of about one transfusion per month based on previous years’ trauma data.
National First Responders Day, officially designated by Congress, is observed annually on October 28 to honor the bravery, selflessness, and dedication of police, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel across the country. In Burnsville, this observance carries special significance as first responders and blood donors work hand-in-hand to save lives through the pre-hospital transfusion program.
“We are incredibly grateful for our partnership with Memorial Blood Centers and proud to share that multiple lives have already been saved through our whole blood program” said BJ Jungmann, Burnsville Fire Chief. “While no one ever wants to see these types of services needed, we take comfort in knowing they are available when they matter most. Our hope is that this lifesaving program continues to grow and flourish in the years to come.”
This innovative program relies entirely on the generosity of volunteer blood donors. Each unit collected through MBC can make the difference between life and death for someone experiencing severe blood loss.
“First responders are on the front lines every day, and their ability to administer blood at the scene is transforming emergency care,” said Kathy Geist, Vice President, Regional Operations at Memorial Blood Centers. “We also want to recognize the blood donors whose selfless contributions make these transfusions possible. This National First Responders Day, we encourage community members to donate blood to ensure this lifesaving resource is always ready when needed.”
Blood donors can give every 56 days, and platelet donors can give twice per month. In light of recent updates to FDA guidance, more people than ever may now be eligible to give. To view current eligibility guidelines, visit mbc.org or call 1.888.448.3253.
