Gambling responsibly
Last revision · fact check
A casino hotel weekend is supposed to be a treat. When gambling stops feeling like one, every province below offers free, confidential help 24 hours a day.
| Province | Age | Regulator | Helpline | Self-exclusion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ontario | 19+ | Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) | ConnexOntario 1-866-531-2600 (round the clock; or text CONNEX to 247247) | OLG My PlayBreak — pick 3 months to 5 years; applies to every casino in Ontario |
| Québec | 18+ | Régie des alcools, des courses et des jeux (RACJ) | Gambling: Help and Referral 1-800-461-0140 (24/7, confidential, no cost) | Loto-Québec self-exclusion — 3 months up to 5 years; irreversible after signing |
| British Columbia | 19+ | Independent Gambling Control Office (IGCO) | Gambling Support BC 1-888-795-6111 (around the clock, free) | BCLC Game Break — six months up to three years |
| Alberta | 18+ | Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) | Alberta Health Services Addiction Helpline 1-866-332-2322 (staffed 24/7) | AGLC Self-Exclusion — 6 months to 3 years at all casinos in Alberta and on PlayAlberta.ca |
| Manitoba | 18+ | Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Authority of Manitoba (LGCA) | Gambling Helpline 1-800-463-1554 (day and night, 24/7) | Voluntary Self-Exclusion covering the Casinos of Winnipeg, Shark Club and/or PlayNow.com |
| New Brunswick | 19+ | Gaming Control Branch, Department of Justice and Public Safety | Gambling Information Line 1-800-461-1234 (TTY, free, confidential) | Voluntary Self-Exclusion, handled by Great Canadian Entertainment |
Rules of thumb
- Pick a spending limit before you check in, and leave the cards in the safe.
- Decide how long you'll play — casino floors don't have clocks.
- Losses are gone; don't chase them.
- Take breaks: swim, book the spa, see the show.
Self-exclusion is available in every province — the casino age and rules guide has the details.