Checking Out the Caretaker

Available information for screening baby-sitters:

* Criminal Records. County courthouses can provide information on civil and criminal convictions when a person’s name, date of birth and Social Security number are provided. Some states also maintain centralized data banks of criminal histories.

* Driving Records. Departments of Motor Vehicles in each state maintain individuals’ driving records, including traffic violations and license suspensions. Name, date of birth, address and license number are helpful.

* Credit Reports. With a person’s signed permission, credit-reporting agencies can release information on outstanding debt obligations and payment patterns as well as a partial employment history.