Playing safely, and where to get help
Last revised · facts verified
Gambling on a resort weekend should feel like part of the holiday. The moment it doesn't, help is free, confidential and awake at any hour, in every province below.
| Province | Min. age | Regulator | Helpline | Self-exclusion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ontario | 19+ | Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) | ConnexOntario 1-866-531-2600 (any hour; you can also text CONNEX to 247247) | OLG My PlayBreak: pick 3 months up 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 (free, confidential, day and night) | Loto-Québec self-exclusion: 3 months to 5 years; cannot be revoked after signing |
| British Columbia | 19+ | Independent Gambling Control Office (IGCO) | Gambling Support BC 1-888-795-6111 (no charge, open 24/7) | BCLC Game Break: anywhere from 6 months to 3 years |
| Alberta | 18+ | Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) | Alberta Health Services Addiction Helpline 1-866-332-2322 (round the clock) | 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 hours a day) | Voluntary Self-Exclusion: choose 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 and confidential, TTY available) | Voluntary Self-Exclusion, handled by Great Canadian Entertainment |
Habits that help
- Fix a spending limit before you check in, and leave the cards in the room safe.
- Watch the time yourself; casino floors don't hang clocks.
- Losses stay lost. Chasing them only makes them bigger.
- Step away often. The pool, the spa and the show are part of the trip too.
Each province also offers voluntary self-exclusion, and our age and rules guide explains how it works.