Urban Search and Rescue in Pennsylvania

In this episode the JSGC podcast crew interviewed project manager Allison Kobzowicz and legal analyst John Brettler about Pennsylvania’s Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) resources. Topics covered in this episode include how many of USAR teams are present in Pennsylvania, what elements comprise them, their history, how they are funded, and recommendations for how this system might be improved. The content of this episode is based on “Assessment of the Commonwealth's Urban Search and Rescue Capabilities,” released in July of 2025. The full report and a summary are available on our website.JSGC would also like to thank the first responders working to keep Pennsylvania safe.Acronyms appearing in this episodeFEMA – Federal Emergency Management AgencyPEMA – Pennsylvania Emergency Management AgencyCBRNE – Chemical Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Explosive CERF-P – CBRNE Enhanced Response Force Package UASI – Urban Area Security InitiativeSHSP – State Homeland Security ProgramMusic by Joseph McDade. Visit us at http://jsg.legis.state.pa.us/