R512-500-5. Preliminary Placement

  (1) The requirements specified in Section 62A-4a-209 must be met for Preliminary Placement of a child with a kinship caregiver.

  (2) A decision to make a Preliminary Placement of a child with a kinship caregiver will include assessment of the kinship caregiver's willingness and ability to care for a child and to keep the child safe, a limited home inspection, and background screening.

  (3) A kinship caregiver must meet the background screening requirements specified in Rule R512-500-7.

  (4) Assessment of safety will be based on safety decision-making principles, which include:

  (a) Potential threats of harm;

  (b) Vulnerabilities of the child; and

  (c) Protective capacities of the potential kinship caregiver and their support system.

  (5) The limited home inspection specified in Section 62A-4a-209 is required for a non-custodial parent, relative, or friend. The limited home inspection is conducted in the home of the prospective kinship caregiver to determine if there are apparent safety risks in the home that present a potential threat of harm to the child. The limited home inspection determines if the following are met:

  (a) The home is free from observable health and fire hazards.

  (b) There are adequate sleeping arrangements to meet the specific needs of each child.

  (c) Any firearms, ammunition, hazardous chemicals, and/or medications are secured and not accessible to children.

  (6) References may be contacted to obtain input regarding placing the child with the potential kinship caregiver or information about other available relatives or friends who may care for the child.