A drive to collect blood for Red Cross Blood Bank will pit the Ceres Police Department and Ceres Fire Department in a friendly competition to see who can collect the most donations from the public.

The Friday, Jan. 19 blood drive at the Ceres Community Center, 2701 Fourth Street, is billed as the "Ceres Community Battles of the Badges." Donors may cast their vote for their favorite local hero: police or fire by donating blood for the side of their choosing. A trophy will be given to the department that ends up getting the most votes from the donating public.

The blood drive will be staged 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

All donors will receive a Battle of the Badges T-shirt, sponsored by Embroidery Plus of Ceres.

Blood donors should be in good general health, at least 17 years of age and weigh a minimum of 110 pounds. Donors may be 16 years old, but must have parental consent and weigh a minimum of 115 pounds.

Donors are advised to drink plenty of fluids and not skip meals before giving blood.

Appointments to donate blood at the event may be made by contacting Detective Carlos Quiroz at 538- 5638. Walk-ins are welcome. A valid photo ID with date of birth is required.

For more an appointment to give blood, visit redcrossblood.org and use sponsor code: Police vs Fire