Responsible Gambling
Practical steps for safer decisions, recognising gambling harm and finding confidential help in British Columbia.
A clear starting point
Chances Abbotsford is a land-based gambling venue in British Columbia. Slot machines and electronic Blackjack, Roulette and Baccarat involve the possibility of losing money. Gambling should be paid entertainment, never a plan for income, debt repayment or recovery of losses. The safest decision for someone experiencing harm from gambling can be not to gamble at all.
Age and entry protections
Casino admission is restricted to adults aged 19 or older. Valid original government-issued photo ID is required. Security checks and venue restrictions apply, and a person enrolled in a self-exclusion program must not attempt to enter. Having an Encore Rewards card does not override admission restrictions. Guests can ask venue staff for help understanding entry and conduct requirements.
Understanding chance and odds
Gaming outcomes are uncertain. Slot results are generated independently; a machine is not “due” for a win after a losing streak. Roulette wagers pay differently because they cover different outcomes, and Blackjack and Baccarat have different rules and house advantages. Past outcomes, a large jackpot display or a promotion do not guarantee future winnings. Read the actual terminal’s paytable and rules.
Set money and time boundaries
Choose a spending limit that will not affect housing, groceries, bills, transportation or savings. Decide on a time limit before arriving, carry only the amount you are willing to lose, and take breaks. Do not increase your budget after a loss or borrow, use credit or sell necessities to continue. Consider attending for dining or entertainment without gambling.
Signs that gambling may be causing harm
Warning signs can include chasing losses, hiding play or spending from others, missing work or obligations, gambling to escape distress, borrowing or using bill money to gamble, and feeling unable to stop. Harm can affect relationships and finances even without daily gambling. Concern from friends or family is worth taking seriously.
GameSense and speaking to staff
GameSense is BCLC’s responsible-gambling education program. Casinos BC lists a GameSense Info Centre at Chances Abbotsford, where visitors can seek information about how games work, odds and responsible choices. Staff can help you find available support; they cannot promise winning tactics or guarantee that a gambling product is safe.
Game Break voluntary self-exclusion
Game Break is BCLC’s voluntary self-exclusion program. People who want an enforced break can ask about enrolling through the appropriate BCLC channels and review the then-current exclusion periods, conditions, and re-entry process. An exclusion can affect admission to participating gaming facilities and other regulated offerings. Do not try to bypass a restriction using another person’s ID or account.
Confidential help in British Columbia
For free and confidential assistance, call the BC Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-888-795-6111. Support is available for the person gambling and for people affected by somebody else’s gambling. If there is immediate danger or a medical emergency, contact local emergency services. You do not need to wait for a crisis to ask for support.
Encore Rewards, promotions and Bonus Play
Rewards points, promotional draws and Bonus Play do not change the underlying risk of gambling. Bonus Play is not the same as cash and is subject to restrictions and expiry conditions. A promotion should never be a reason to exceed your personal limit. Some promotional communications can be avoided by adjusting preferences with the relevant program operator.
What friends and family can do
Speak respectfully and without judgment, focus on observed effects, avoid providing money that finances more gambling, and support practical limits. Encourage professional counselling or a confidential helpline. Family members and friends can request help in their own right even if the person who gambles does not seek support.
Who regulates gambling in BC
The British Columbia Lottery Corporation conducts and manages commercial gambling in the province; the Independent Gambling Control Office regulates gambling under the Gaming Control Act. The updated framework took effect in April 2026. This independent informational website is not a regulator and cannot settle disputes, adjudicate a payout or enrol a person in Game Break.
Planning a safer visit
Before visiting, confirm your age and ID eligibility, casino hours and whether you want to gamble at all. Decide on a strict spending ceiling, identify a departure time, avoid gambling while intoxicated, and plan safe transport. If limits no longer work, stop gambling and seek support. A visit for RED21 dining or events does not require placing a bet.
These pages describe this informational website. They are not the operator’s official legal conditions, gambling contract or privacy notice. Content may change; confirm venue requirements directly.