What must the county agency conduct before an emergency placement of a juvenile?

Before an emergency placement of a juvenile, it is essential for the county agency to conduct an inspection of the placement premises for health and safety. This step is crucial to ensure that the environment where the juvenile will be placed is safe, secure, and suitable for their well-being. Assessing the physical condition of the premises helps to identify any potential hazards, ensuring that the juvenile will be in a safe living situation during this critical time.

While evaluations and checks related to the juvenile and their family are important, the immediate priority during an emergency placement is to confirm that the living environment meets safety standards. Such inspections typically cover various aspects such as sanitation, structural integrity, access to necessities, and overall suitability for a child’s needs, which is vital in safeguarding the juvenile's welfare.