Cabarrus County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) is hosting the inaugural Cabarrus Red Cross Battle of the Badges Blood Drive.

The drive is open to the public, and donors can choose which “badge” they want to honor with their donation. Bragging rights are on the line among a variety of local public safety organizations.

The event will take place on July 23 from 7 a.m. to noon and July 24 from 2 to 7 p.m.

From the County, EMS, Fire Services and the Sheriff’s Office are joining the “battle,” along with City of Concord Police and Fire Departments and the City of Kannapolis Police and Fire Departments. County volunteer fire departments are also represented. NOTE: to see some good-natured trash talking and lobbying, head over to the Facebook pages of EMS (@cabarruscountyems) and the Sheriff’s Office (@CabarrusSheriff).

Participants can register for a time slot by visiting https://bit.ly/CabCoBloodDrive.

Organizers note that participants should bring a valid ID and eat a healthy meal and drink plenty of water before donating.  

The event will be held at the new Cabarrus EMS Headquarters, 793 Cabarrus Ave. West.