The purpose of Child Protective Services is to stop and prevent child abuse and neglect through the: Investigation of child abuse and neglect; Comprehensive assessment of safety, risk and service needs; and Provision of services or service referrals for abused or neglected children and their families. These regulations establish the appropriate protocols for local departments of social services to: Accept reports of suspected child abuse or neglect; Promptly determine whether to investigate a report or to initiate a comprehensive family assessment; Complete a timely investigation or family assessment appropriate to the circumstances; After an investigation, make a finding consistent with the law; After conducting a family assessment, complete and distribute a written assessment addressing safety and risk; and Create and maintain accurate reports and records that can serve as tools in providing services and in future involvement with the family.