The Connecticut Epilepsy Advocate and the Connecticut Chapter of the American Red Cross hosted a blood drive in Milford today pitting firefighters and police officers against each other to see who could get more people to donate blood.

The "Battle of the Badges Blood Drive" is the third annual event between the Milford Police Department and Milford Fire Department.

The purpose of the event is to encourage family members, friends and co-workers of the police and firefighters to donate blood.

Upon check-in, donors are asked to select a box on a form stating the department they are donating for.

The winner of the friendly competition will receive bragging rights for getting the most people to donate blood.

Connecticut Epilepsy Advocate President Bob Fiore says there is a need for blood donations now more than ever.

"Last year, the Red Cross was short over 200,000 pints, and this year the number is virtually the same. So, blood is always needed," Fiore says.

Donations are being accepted until 6 p.m. at Woodruff Family YMCA in Milford.