New blood donor? No big deal.

Once you get up to speed on the basics of how to donate blood, it’s amazing how simple the process can be, even for first-timers.

We rounded up the most important information to help you. Cross off the items on our New Blood Donor Checklist below, and you’ll be ready to go.

1. Find a blood donation location.

Map out your plan. Maybe you have your eye on an upcoming blood drive at work or in the community (never hurts to go with people you know). Or maybe you’d prefer to schedule a visit on your own time.

Your comfort comes first. And if convenience makes you comfortable, try finding a location through our Be The 1 donor website.

2. Drink two big glasses of water before your visit.

3. Most importantly, just eat. But, if you can, try to eat foods that are high in iron, too.

4. Give yourself a refresher on your medical history.

You’ll be asked a few questions as part of a standard screening — so make a note (mental or physical) about your basic medical history, medications you are taking and any recent travel.

On the other hand, in case you’ve ever heard this myth: Don’t worry about having a tattoo.

5. Settle in and find your cozy place.

Remember what we said at the top? Donating blood is NBD. The actual donation process lasts about 10 minutes.

For a relaxing diversion, check out locations that offer our mixed reality experience, complete with a headset that puts you in a soothing virtual setting even while you can still see the real world around you.

After that? (Meaning, after you donate, eat a post-donation snack and congratulate yourself on taking quite possibly the easiest route to saving someone’s life that exists?)

Only one thing left to do …

6. Schedule your next appointment. You can donate up to six times a year.

As we said, becoming a new blood donor is no biggie, but, for the people you’re helping, it means the world.