Case Studies

San Bernardino is a fast growing metropolis located about one hour east of Los Angeles. It lies in the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains. It is one of the oldest communities in the State of California, dating back to 1810.

Longwatch Helps Protect Water Supply
The need to monitor remote sites against the unwanted presence of intruders is critically important to water suppliers. Suppliers, and the communities they serve, are well aware of the heightened security measures that have been mandated by the EPA and Homeland Security. Even when intruders are apprehended and claim no harm was done, precautions must be taken. There have been many situations where communities have been forced to shut down their system for multiple days to test water for contamination after intruders had been detected. With video surveillance and archiving, operators can review video clips to confirm if any hostile activities took place saving the community from a costly system shutdown.

"We are always looking for methods to enhance the security of our water supply. It's no longer acceptable to allow access to individuals that are not part of our operation. We have had some issues with vandalism that required increasing our visibility of remote locations, especially at our reservoirs. Our people are often at these locations, but not around the clock," explained Joe Gisler, SCADA Analyst.

Video Surveillance, Card Access Control Integrated into SCADA System
Longwatch was designed to integrate into existing SCADA systems. System operators can view system alarms and security alarms on the same SCADA screen, including video. The Longwatch system also provides the seamless integration of card access control which provides a second level of security. Operators can view and record each entry into a facility made by card holders for verification. This feature coupled with event triggered alarms provides water suppliers with an extra level of protection.

"We installed Longwatch at one of our reservoirs. At this particular site we have a building that houses chemicals that we need to protect. We also needed to monitor a hatch door. By installing a card access system on the building and a hatch switch we have significantly improved our security. We're also impressed how both systems integrated into our Wonderware system. We now receive system alarms and security alarms on the same system," said Gisler.

PTZ Cameras Provide Added Flexibility Longwatch can utilize both single point and PTZ cameras to transmit video. In cases where one camera has visibility to multiple locations that require surveillance, the installation of one PTZ camera may eliminate the need to install multiple single point cameras.

"The Longwatch system provided us the flexibility to install one camera to monitor the hatch door and the building we needed to secure. When an event is triggered the camera automatically focuses on the point of the alarm," said Gisler.

Video over Existing Communications Network
The Longwatch Surveillance System can utilize existing SCADA low-bandwidth communication networks to transmit video. Unlike stand-alone security systems that use closed-circuit or broadband networks for video transmission, Longwatch does not require the installation of a new communications network.

"We are utilizing our iNET radios to transmit the video. Not having to install a separate communications line made this project very cost effective", noted Gisler.

Easy to Install and Operate
"We're very happy with the system. The installation went well and we expect to expand it over time," commented Gisler.

Powerful Tool for Security and Operations Management
"The Longwatch Surveillance System is a powerful tool that has taken us to the next level in securing our community's water supply," says Danos. "Additionally, the system can help us improve employee safety. Should an accident take place, the video can be reviewed to see if procedures need to be changed. We can also use the Longwatch system to assess malfunctioning equipment. This becomes critical if there is a leak that could cause contamination. The video also provides vital visual information that will help determine whether or not to shut down operations. There is a lot that you can do with this powerful tool to improve security, safety and operations management, and I am just scratching the surface of its benefits."

For More Information
For more information on the Longwatch Surveillance System, or to find out how Longwatch can help provide faster, more efficient and costeffective threat deterrence, detection and response, contact:

San Bernardino, CA Installs Longwatch Security System

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