Security at a Casino

A casino is a place where gambling takes place, typically offering slots, table games (like blackjack and roulette) and entertainment shows. In order to gamble at a casino, you must be of legal age and comply with their rules. Gambling at casinos is usually done by exchanging cash for chips or credits.

A large percentage of a casino’s profits come from gambling. Slots, blackjack, roulette, baccarat and craps are the main games that bring in the billions of dollars in revenue that casino owners enjoy each year. Other attractions, like stage shows, lighted fountains and shopping centers, help draw in the crowds, but casinos would not exist without their most profitable games.

Something about gambling seems to encourage people to cheat and steal, either in collusion with others or on their own. This is why casinos spend a great deal of time, money and energy on security.

Security begins on the casino floor, where staff members keep an eye on patrons and the tables to make sure all is as it should be. Dealers focus their attention on the game and can easily spot blatant cheating, such as palming or marking cards. The pit bosses and table managers have a broader view and can spot patterns in betting that could indicate cheating.

In addition, there are often cameras in the casino that monitor all activity. The security team also keeps watch for suspicious guests and reports any violations to the police.