(KGTV) - Parents or families worried about placing their loved ones in the care of a facility or someone else can find some peace of mind in services offered online from the state.
The California Department of Social Services offers numerous links to check out child care or adult care facilities and screen them before placing trust in a caretaker.
The department's website allows users to simply search for facilities through its web portal. Here, you type in a facility's name and address, or facility number to get information on past inspections, reports, citations, and complaints.
Users can search for information on:
- Foster family agencies
- 24-hour residential care for children
- Adult residential and daycare facilities
- Elderly assisted living
- Child care facilities
- Home care organizations
- Or, all facility types
The CDSS has also launched a free mobile app to search for facilities in both Apple and Google Play app stores.
Data on facilities is updated on a weekly basis.
While the state offers the online search, it advises that families take extra steps to vet facilities.
"Such information should only serve as an initial point of inquiry regarding the licensing status and regulatory history of a licensed facility," the CDSS website reads.
The site recommends users contact the licensing office responsible for a facility's license and inspection for additional documents and information.
The state also offers links to further research facilities, including laws and regulations, facilities by county, and child care related websites, as well here.
Mark Saunders is a KGTV digital producer. Follow him on Twitter at @10NewsSaunders.
