By Brady Talbert / Staff Writer

HOOVER – Hoover’s first responders are asking the public to “respond to the call” for a change, at a little friendly competition benefiting the American Red Cross.

The battle is on between the Hoover Police Department and Fire Department for the city’s Battle of the Badges blood drive, a competition than pins the two groups against each other in an attempt to collect more blood than the other.

On Wednesday, July 25, from 7 a.m. to 7p.m. the American Red Cross will be collecting blood on the second floor of the Fire Administration lobby on 2020 Valleydale Road.

After donating, it is up to the public to decide who is their favorite Hoover agency by casting a vote for either the fire or police department. Those who donate will walk away with a free Battle of the Badges T-shirt, while the winning agency will walk away with bragging rights and a trophy.

This is the first year for the nationwide campaign to take place in Hoover, according to Officer Brian Hale.

“We are very fortunate to able to work for such a wonderful, caring community here in Hoover,” Hale said, adding that the event “gives us a chance to have a little fun with our buddies” and an opportunity for the community to give back.

Both departments have taken to their official Facebook pages in an attempt to gain more recruits than the other. The fire department is encouraging the public to “help us win the battle” while also possibly saving a life, and the Hoover PD is aiming for the city to be “among the top vote getters” in the nation.

To register visit the American Red Cross’ website at redcrossblood.org and select the Hoover area, or call the Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767.