Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
At Alberta Live Events Coalition, we believe that online casino gaming should be enjoyed as entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While playing at instant withdrawal casinos can be fun and exciting, it's important to approach gaming responsibly and within your means.
Remember: the house always has an edge. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and never chase losses.
Age Verification
Online casino gaming in Canada is restricted to individuals who are 18 years of age or older (or the legal age of majority in your province). It is illegal for minors to gamble online or in person. We are committed to preventing underage gambling and verify the age of all players before allowing access to gaming platforms.
If you are under 18, please do not attempt to register or play. If you suspect underage gambling is occurring, please report it immediately.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Be honest with yourself and watch for these warning signs:
- Chasing Losses: Trying to win back money you've lost by gambling more
- Hiding Gambling Activity: Keeping your gambling secret from family or friends
- Increasing Bets: Needing to bet more money to achieve the same level of excitement
- Loss of Control: Being unable to stop gambling or stick to limits you've set
- Gambling Despite Consequences: Continuing to gamble even when it's causing financial or personal problems
- Neglecting Responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family obligations due to gambling
- Financial Problems: Borrowing money to gamble or gambling with money needed for bills and essentials
- Mood Changes: Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed when not gambling
- Escalating Time: Spending increasing amounts of time thinking about or engaging in gambling
- Failed Attempts to Quit: Repeatedly trying and failing to reduce or stop gambling
If you recognize any of these warning signs in yourself or someone you know, it's time to seek help.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control of your gaming:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly). This helps you manage your budget.
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose. When reached, your account will be temporarily locked.
- Session Time Limits: Set automatic reminders or session duration limits to prevent extended gaming sessions.
- Reality Checks: Enable pop-up notifications during your session reminding you of how long you've been playing and how much you've spent.
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from playing at online casinos for a period you choose. This is one of the most effective tools for problem gamblers.
- Account Closure: Permanently close your gaming account if you wish to stop gambling entirely.
We encourage all players to use these tools proactively, even if you don't currently see problem gambling as an issue.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you or someone you care about is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. In Canada and internationally, these organizations provide free, confidential support:
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
Provides resources, research, and support for responsible gambling in Canada. - Gamblers Anonymous Canada
A 12-step peer support program with meetings across Canada for those struggling with gambling addiction.
International Resources
- GamCare (United Kingdom)
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
Free counselling and support for problem gamblers and their families. - GamStop (United Kingdom)
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
National self-exclusion scheme across UK-regulated gambling operators. - Gambling Help Online (Australia)
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Free counselling and information for problem gamblers in Australia. - National Council on Problem Gambling (United States)
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
Information, resources, and referrals for problem gambling in the US.
Alberta-Specific Resources: Contact your provincial health authority or search for local addiction services in your area for counselling and treatment options.
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
Problem gambling is a serious issue, but recovery is possible. If you're concerned about your gambling habits or those of someone else, don't wait—seek help today. Speaking to a counsellor is free, confidential, and a positive first step toward regaining control.
Remember: Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether you use self-exclusion tools, contact support organizations, or speak to a trusted friend or family member, there are people ready to help you.
If you are in crisis, please contact emergency services or a crisis helpline in your area immediately.
Our Commitment
Alberta Live Events Coalition is committed to promoting responsible gaming and supporting players who may be at risk. We work with our casino partners to ensure that responsible gaming information is readily available and that all players have access to tools and support services. If you have questions about responsible gaming or need assistance, please don't hesitate to contact us or reach out to one of the organizations listed above.