Understand the risks
Casino games are designed with a house advantage over time. A short session can produce a win, but no result is guaranteed and past outcomes do not make a future win more likely. Treat money spent as an entertainment cost that may be lost. Gambling is not a reliable way to earn income, repay debt or solve financial pressure.
Risk can extend beyond money. Long sessions, disrupted sleep, conflict with family, reduced focus at work or school, and distress about gambling are all reasons to pause and consider support.
Set spending and time limits
Before starting, decide on an amount you can comfortably afford to lose after essential costs and savings are covered. Do not borrow, use credit you cannot repay, or increase the limit to recover losses. Leave payment methods you do not intend to use elsewhere, and stop when your planned budget is gone.
Set a clear end time and use a phone reminder. Take breaks for food, water and fresh air. Time away can help restore perspective. Avoid gambling when upset, tired or affected by alcohol or other substances, when decision-making may be harder.
Notice signs that gambling may be causing harm
- Trying to win back losses or spending more than planned.
- Hiding gambling, money or time from people close to you.
- Borrowing, missing bills or feeling financial stress because of gambling.
- Finding it difficult to stop, cut back or think about other things.
- Gambling affecting sleep, work, study, relationships or mental health.
Gambling is optional
A visit to Fallsview Casino Resort does not have to include gambling. The wider resort includes hotel accommodation, dining, entertainment and shops, and Niagara Falls offers other visitor activities. Plan the parts of a visit that fit your interests and budget. If gambling feels difficult to control, avoid the gaming area and reach out for help.
Self-exclusion in Ontario
Ontario offers voluntary self-exclusion options for people who want a structured break. OLG’s My PlayBreak is intended for land-based gaming locations and OLG digital play; the length and terms are selected through the programme. BetGuard is a separate province-wide digital self-exclusion service for regulated online gambling and does not cover in-person casinos. These tools have different scopes. Review official programme details and speak with a PlaySmart Centre or OLG support before enrolling so you understand which venues and services are included.
Support for family and friends
Concerned relatives and friends can also contact ConnexOntario for information about services and support options. Speak calmly, focus on the impact you have noticed, and protect your own financial and emotional wellbeing. You do not have to wait until a crisis to ask what help is available.
Ontario support
ConnexOntario provides free, confidential information about mental health, addictions and problem gambling services in Ontario. Call 1-866-531-2600 or visit its website. PlaySmart offers education about games, risk and tools for making informed decisions.
Frequently asked questions
Does setting a limit guarantee I will not lose more? A limit is a useful boundary, but it works only if you stop when it is reached. Can a win be expected after a series of losses? No. Each game result is uncertain; losses do not make a win due. Where can I get confidential advice? Contact ConnexOntario at 1-866-531-2600. How can I take a break from gambling? Review the relevant official self-exclusion option and ask a PlaySmart Centre or OLG for help understanding its coverage.
Make an informed choice
Choose whether to gamble freely, keep within limits you set in advance, and seek support as soon as gambling causes concern. If you need help finding a service, ConnexOntario is a starting point.