Security at a Casino

Casino

A casino is a facility where gambling games of chance are played. They range from massive Las Vegas resorts to small card rooms in truck stops, racetracks, and even some bars and restaurants. The games are regulated by state or local law, and the facilities are licensed by government authorities. Successful casinos earn billions of dollars each year for the businesses, investors, and Native American tribes that operate them. They also bring in visitors who spend money on hotel rooms, meals, drinks, and shows.

Something about the presence of large amounts of money seems to encourage people to cheat and steal, either in collusion or independently. That’s why casinos invest a great deal of time and effort in security measures.

The most obvious form of security is on the gaming floors, where employees keep their eyes on patrons to make sure they’re not stealing chips or betting against the house. In addition to dealers, pit bosses, and table managers, casinos employ a number of “higher-up” people who watch over different sections of the floor and make sure everyone is playing by the rules.

Modern casinos are more likely to rely on electronic surveillance systems and databases to track game play and patron habits. But they still have a security staff armed with weapons for emergencies, and they work closely with local law enforcement to prevent criminal activity within their facilities.