Play safe
Responsible gambling
Tips for keeping a casino trip fun, warning signs to watch for, and free helplines in every province we cover.
Casino resorts are built for a good time, and for most people that's all they are. But gambling can become a problem for anyone. These habits help keep it a night out:
- Decide on a budget before you arrive, and treat it as the cost of the evening.
- Set a time limit. Casino floors have no clocks and no windows for a reason.
- Never chase losses or borrow money to keep playing.
- Don't gamble when you're upset, stressed or drinking heavily.
- Balance the gaming with the rest of the resort: the spa, a show, a good dinner.
Warning signs
It may be time to talk to someone if you're spending more than you planned, hiding how much you gamble, feeling anxious when you can't play, or gambling to win back money you've lost.
Free, confidential help
Every province we cover runs a free helpline, open 24 hours a day:
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 9-8-8 any time, anywhere in Canada.
Self-exclusion
Every province runs a voluntary self-exclusion program. You choose a period, and for that time you won't be allowed into the province's casinos. To sign up:
- Ontario: OLG's My PlayBreak program, through OLG or at any Ontario casino.
- Quebec: Loto-Québec's self-exclusion program, at the security desk of any Casino du Québec.
- British Columbia: BCLC's Voluntary Self-Exclusion program, through a GameSense advisor at any BC casino.
- Alberta: AGLC's Self-Exclusion Program, which covers every Alberta casino and racing entertainment centre.
Ask at guest services in any casino and staff can explain the options.
Age limits
You must be 19 or older to gamble in Ontario and British Columbia, and 18 or older in Quebec, Alberta and Manitoba. Casinos check ID. This site is for adults of legal gaming age.
Our approach
We review casino resorts as places to stay. We don't encourage anyone to gamble, we don't promote bonuses or free play, and we never suggest that gambling is a way to make money.