  When a quantity reaches a value higher (or lower) than its value at any time
before, it is said to have made a record. We numerically study the statistical
properties of records in the time series of order parameters in different
models near their critical points. Specifically, we choose transversely driven
Edwards-Wilkinson model for interface depinning in (1+1) dimensions and the
Ising model in two dimensions, as paradigmatic and simple examples of
non-equilibrium and equilibrium critical behaviors respectively. The total
number of record breaking events in the time series of the order parameters of
the models show maxima when the system is near criticality. The number of
record breaking events and associated quantities, such as the distribution of
the waiting time between successive record events, show power law scaling near
the critical point. The exponent values are specific to the universality
classes of the respective models. Such behaviors near criticality can be used
as a precursor to imminent criticality i.e. abrupt and catastrophic changes in
the system. Due to the extreme nature of the records, its measurements are
relatively free of detection errors and thus provide a clear signal regarding
the state of the system in which they are measured.
