Safer gambling and where to get help
Page revised · data checked
Gambling on a casino-hotel trip should stay entertainment. If it doesn't, help in each province below is free, confidential and available 24/7.
| Province | Age | Regulator | Helpline | Self-exclusion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ontario | 19+ | Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) | ConnexOntario 1-866-531-2600 (24/7, or text CONNEX to 247247) | OLG My PlayBreak: choose 3 months to 5 years; applies at all Ontario casinos |
| Québec | 18+ | Régie des alcools, des courses et des jeux (RACJ) | Gambling: Help and Referral 1-800-461-0140 (24/7, free and confidential) | Loto-Québec self-exclusion: 3 months to 5 years, cannot be revoked once signed |
| British Columbia | 19+ | Independent Gambling Control Office (IGCO) | Gambling Support BC 1-888-795-6111 (free, 24/7) | BCLC Game Break: from 6 months up to 3 years |
| Alberta | 18+ | Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) | Alberta Health Services Addiction Helpline 1-866-332-2322 (24/7) | AGLC Self-Exclusion: 6 months to 3 years, every Alberta casino plus PlayAlberta.ca |
| Manitoba | 18+ | Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Authority of Manitoba (LGCA) | Gambling Helpline 1-800-463-1554 (24/7) | Voluntary Self-Exclusion: 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 (free, confidential, TTY) | Voluntary Self-Exclusion, arranged through Great Canadian Entertainment |
Practical habits
- Fix your spending limit at home, and leave your cards in the room safe.
- Decide when you'll stop — casino floors have no clocks, on purpose.
- Accept losses instead of chasing them.
- Take real breaks: a swim, the spa or a show.
Each province runs voluntary self-exclusion; our age and rules guide covers the details.