The Santa Clara Emergency Wireless Network

2011 CESA Silver Award winners

SCEWN is a non-profit cooperative dedicated to promoting network connectivity between key public service end points in the event of a disaster. In the event of a crisis that effects entire geographic areas, incumbent communication systems are vulnerable to failure.

Our larger goal is developing mind share in disaster management circles for thinking in terms of lateral communication between municipalities, utilities, health care centers, corporations and NGOs, for using modern IP modes for more efficient interoperability, and appreciation for the value of resilience in network connectivity. Putting SCEWN into key peoples' hands is just one piece of attaining this objective. Having them implement procedures for use is the rest.