Responsible Gambling Policy
Great Blue Heron Casino & Hotel operates under a responsible gambling framework that supports informed decision-making and provides guests with access to support resources. This document outlines harm prevention and player protection measures, as well as the resources available for individuals requiring assistance related to gambling activities.
1. Policy Scope and Application
This Responsible Gambling Policy applies to all gaming activities at Great Blue Heron Casino & Hotel, 21777 Island Road, Port Perry, Ontario. The policy covers slot machines, live table games, electronic table games, and poker room activities. All guests on the gaming floor are subject to these terms.
The responsible gambling program meets requirements set by the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) and the Baagwating Community Association, the relevant managers of slot and table operations.
2. Organizational Commitment
Responsible gambling is integrated into overall player health protocols. Efforts are focused on prevention and mitigation of gambling-related harm, as mandated by provincial regulations.
Engagement in gaming activities is a personal choice. The policy does not imply any obligation on the part of the casino to control or modify guest behaviour. The purpose is to ensure guests receive information on positive play practices and relevant support resources.
3. Age Verification and Entry Requirements
Gaming floor access is restricted to individuals 19 years of age or older. All entrants must present valid, original government-issued photo identification showing date of birth. Individuals appearing under 30 years of age are required to provide such identification. Photocopies or digital forms of identification are not accepted. Entry is denied to those failing to provide proper identification or not meeting the age requirement.
4. Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program
A voluntary self-exclusion program is available in cooperation with the OLG. The program, known as My PlayBreak, allows individuals to exclude themselves from gaming activities for a defined period.
4.1 Enrollment Process
Enrollment in My PlayBreak may occur in person at the facility or online through the OLG platform. Completion of program documentation and identity verification are required.
4.2 Program Terms
Exclusion period options are selected during enrollment. Participants enrolled after September 12, 2022, may return to gaming activities when their exclusion term ends unless renewed.
4.3 Renewal Options
Self-exclusion periods may be extended through the available renewal process. Notification of term expiry is sent by email or letter with links to renewal forms.
4.4 Enforcement
Systems are maintained to identify individuals under self-exclusion attempting entry. Those identified are asked to leave the premises. Any winnings during self-exclusion may be forfeited according to program conditions.
5. Responsible Gambling Information Centre
The PlaySmart Centre, located on the gaming floor, offers educational materials, interactive tools, and information on responsible gambling practices. Topics include game odds, common gambling myths, guidelines for lower-risk play, and support service contact information. These resources are available to both guests and team members.
6. Support Resources and Referrals
Information and referrals to professional support and assistance are available for those experiencing gambling-related difficulties.
6.1 Provincial Resources
Ontario Problem Gambling Helpline: 24/7 confidential support for individuals affected by gambling.
PlaySmart.ca: OLG resource for information, tools, and advice about gambling activities, game mechanics, odds, and low-risk strategies.
6.2 National Resources
ResponsibleGambling.org: National organization providing responsible gambling information and support tools.
6.3 Community Support
Gamblers Anonymous: Peer support meetings and community assistance for people with gambling concerns.
Gam-Anon: Resource for family members and others affected by someone else’s gambling.
7. Team Member Training and Responsibilities
Team members complete responsible gambling training appropriate to their roles. Training ensures staff can support guests as required.
7.1 Team Member Duties
All guests are to be treated respectfully. Staff provide information or direct to resources when guests request help or show signs of distress, verifying identification or loyalty program details as necessary. Issues requiring intervention are escalated to supervisors or specialists. Contacts with external professionals are facilitated where appropriate.
7.2 Code of Conduct
Team members sign the Responsible Gambling Code of Conduct, acknowledging program requirements and supporting responsible play.
8. Marketing and Advertising Standards
Marketing and social media materials include responsible gambling messaging and graphics, as required by provincial regulators.
Materials are prohibited from encouraging excessive play, implying guaranteed winnings, appealing to minors, appearing at youth-focused venues, depicting gambling preoccupation, or suggesting increased chances of winning with prolonged play.
9. Player Identification and Monitoring
Player activity is tracked through voluntary loyalty program infrastructure. Collected information may be used to identify high-risk behaviour and prompt intervention. Guests not participating in loyalty programs are not tracked, but remain subject to all other policy terms.
10. Prohibited Conduct
Access is denied to individuals intoxicated or impaired by substances, carrying weapons or illicit material, or refusing security inspection.
Prohibited conduct includes foul or threatening language, fighting, threats to guests or staff, use or smoking of cannabis on the property, and smoking or vaping outside designated areas. A zero-tolerance policy applies to violence or any behaviour giving cause for reasonable concern of injury.
11. RG Check Accreditation
Great Blue Heron Casino & Hotel maintains RG Check accreditation from the Responsible Gambling Council, an independent entity recognized for responsible gambling standards.
Accreditation entails annual review against criteria including player safeguards, team member training, self-exclusion, advertising standards, and ongoing improvement. Annual reaccreditation verifies program adherence to best practices.
12. Security Measures
Video surveillance is operational throughout the property at all times. Metal detectors are used at public entrances. Security staff may inspect bags and belongings as a condition of entry. Entry is denied for refusal to submit to inspection.
13. Policy Modifications
The Responsible Gambling Policy may be modified at any time to reflect regulatory, operational, or industry changes. Significant changes are communicated by signage at the facility and through the official website.
Continued use of gaming activities after modifications constitutes acceptance of revised policy terms.
14. Contact Information
For Responsible Gambling Policy inquiries or access to support resources, contact:
Great Blue Heron Casino & Hotel
21777 Island Road, Port Perry, ON L9L 1B6
Telephone: 905-985-4888 or 1-888-294-3766
For urgent problem gambling support, contact the Ontario Problem Gambling Helpline 24/7 or visit PlaySmart.ca.
This policy is effective from the date of publication and supersedes previous versions.