How Does a Casino Protect Its Customers?
If you’ve ever visited a casino, you’ve probably wondered how it protects its customers. Casinos are equipped with elaborate surveillance systems that allow security personnel to monitor the casino floor from every angle. Cameras installed in the ceiling watch every table, doorway, and window, and can be positioned to focus on suspicious patrons. Video feeds are recorded for review later. Even the slots are secure, with computer chips that determine their payouts. No one actually watches the slot floor, however.
In addition, casinos don’t lose money when patrons lose money. Every game has an expectation of payout that is in the casino’s favor. This means that casino games have a mathematical edge over other forms of gambling. Because of this, casinos rarely lose money. Big bettors are regularly given extravagant inducements, including free drinks, cigarettes, and reduced-fare transportation. But while gambling is fun, it’s best to know your limits.
One way to measure the effect of a casino is to look at the local unemployment rate. The casino might lower the unemployment rate, but it’s worth comparing the local rate to the state rate. The casino may have had little or no impact on unemployment, as most casino jobs require some level of skill. However, in rural areas, most labor may be coming from outside the area. Thus, the casino’s economic impact on the local economy may not be measurable.
Many casinos use cameras and computers to ensure security. Some casinos have catwalks suspended from the ceiling that allow surveillance personnel to observe the floor below. These catwalks contain one-way glass, so that surveillance personnel can see the floor below. Despite the potential health risk of these devices, casinos employ other security measures to keep their guests safe. For instance, if the casino becomes infected with the Ebola virus, its Team Members will be prevented from entering until they have been medically cleared. Additionally, chip runners will sanitize the chip racks regularly.