The Milwaukee Police and Fire departments teamed up with the Blood Center of Wisconsin again Friday for a blood drive.

Officials say there's often a drop in blood donations during the summer, but this time of year is critical for donations.

The blood drive was held from 10 to 3:00 PM at the city of Milwaukee Fire and Police Academy Gym on Teutonia Avenue.

Donors received a snack and free ticket to the upcoming Wisconsin State Fair.

Todd Coleman of the  Blood Center of Wisconsin says this began as just an agreement between first responders, a battle of the badges between Fire and Police.

Today was different in that the community was invited to join in.

There certainly was a feeling of fun with plenty of people laughing and talking as they waited their turn to roll up their sleeves.

To find out about other donation events or to make an appointment call  1-877-BE-A-HERO. 1-877-232-4376.