AWWA Offers Free Security System to Some Utilities
The American Water Works Association (AWWA), in partnership with the WaterISAC, on Jan. 20 announced that it will provide U.S. member utilities serving less than 50,000 people with an opportunity to test-drive the WaterISAC Pro Internet-based security information system.
WaterISAC is a private, not-for-profit organization authorized by U.S. Congress and supported by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. It was established in 2002 by utilities to provide information necessary to secure water systems and ensure continuous utility operations in the face of all hazards. ISAC stands for Information Sharing and Analysis Centers.
Through e-mail and a secure Internet portal, WaterISAC provides drinking water and wastewater utilities with threat alerts, resources on emergency preparedness and management, and other information to support utility infrastructure protection efforts. Today, hundreds of drinking water and wastewater systems in the United States, Canada, and Australia have made WaterISAC Pro an integral part of their security programs.
“Infrastructure security is critical to protecting public health and local economies,” said AWWA Executive Director Gary Zimmerman. “AWWA remains active in providing resources and guidance to help utilities protect their systems and prepare for emergency responses. The utilities that experience WaterISAC will find it useful in identifying potential threats and as a clearinghouse for information to address risks and analyze security protocols.”
Benefits of the system include:
- An e-mail alert system providing notice to subscribers about natural disasters, terrorism threats, and cyber security vulnerabilities;
- Online tools to network directly with colleagues in the United States, Australia, and Canada to share knowledge on infrastructure protection;
- A searchable online library of more than 2,000 documents on security and emergency preparedness, best practices, guidance, and threats;
- Searchable chemical/biological contaminant databases created by subject-matter experts;
- The ability to collaborate securely on special projects with colleagues.
Utilities interested in participating should visit http://www.waterisac.org and click on “Subscribe.” Questions can be sent via e-mail to info@waterisac.org.