Clifton Fire Department was honored by The Prudential Insurance Company of America for acquiring portable cardiac defibrillators through The Prudential Helping Hearts Program. The rescue squad received a $1,000 grant from Prudential to help defray the cost of the defibrillation unit. The presentation took place at the Clifton Fire Department.

The Prudential Helping Hearts Program is a grant-making initiative designed to help speed the acquisition of portable cardiac defibrillation units by volunteer rescue squads and fire departments. Defibrillators, which administer jolts of electricity to "reset" the heart's natural rhythm, have been called one of the most important lifesaving inventions of the 20th century.

Jim Wells, an IFS representative for Prudential in Rochester, addressed squad members and praised them for their initiative. "Prudential commends you for your tireless efforts to help the residents of your communities. We applaud your selfless volunteerism and are pleased to be able to help you acquire this life-saving machine."

Each year, approximately 250,000 Americans suffer sudden cardiac failure and die before reaching a hospital, according to the American Heart Association. Studies have shown that on-site defibrillation more than doubles a victim's chances of survival.