Responsible Gaming
At Francis Plourde, we are committed to promoting safe and responsible gaming practices. Gambling should be enjoyed as entertainment, never as a way to earn money or solve financial problems.
Our Commitment to You
We believe that informed players make better decisions. This page provides essential information about responsible gaming, warning signs to watch for, and resources to help you maintain control.
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). We take age verification seriously and reserve the right to verify your age at any time. If you are under the legal age, you are not permitted to use our services.
Gambling Should Be Entertainment
Remember these fundamental principles:
- Gambling is a form of entertainment, not a source of income
- The house always has a mathematical advantage
- Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose
- Treat any winnings as a bonus, not an expected outcome
- Always set a budget before you play and stick to it
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognize any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may indicate a problem with gambling:
- Chasing losses: Trying to win back money you've lost by gambling more
- Hiding gambling: Concealing gambling activity from family or friends
- Loss of control: Gambling longer or with more money than intended
- Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family obligations due to gambling
- Financial strain: Borrowing money or going into debt to gamble
- Preoccupation: Constantly thinking about gambling or planning the next gaming session
- Increasing stakes: Needing to bet more to achieve the same level of excitement
- Failed attempts to cut back: Repeatedly trying and failing to reduce gambling
- Mood changes: Becoming anxious, irritable, or depressed when not gambling
- Using gambling to escape: Gambling to cope with stress, anxiety, or other problems
Self-Help Tools & Features
Many reputable online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control over your gaming:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period
- Loss Limits: Set a cap on the amount of money you're willing to lose
- Reality Checks: Receive notifications about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Session Limits: Automatically end your gaming session after a predetermined time
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from gambling for a set period (days, weeks, months, or years)
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if needed
We encourage you to use these tools proactively. Set limits before you begin playing, and review them regularly.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Here are trusted organizations that provide confidential support:
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
A national organization providing education, research, and resources for problem gambling in Canada - Gamblers Anonymous
A peer-support fellowship for individuals recovering from gambling addiction with meetings across Canada
International Resources
- National Council on Problem Gambling (USA)
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
24/7 Helpline: 1-800-522-4700 - GamCare (United Kingdom)
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (United Kingdom)
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
A national self-exclusion scheme - Gambling Help Online (Australia)
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
If You Need Help
Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether you're experiencing problem gambling yourself or are concerned about someone else, the organizations listed above offer:
- Free, confidential counseling and support
- Information about treatment options
- Self-exclusion programs
- Support groups and peer counseling
- 24/7 helplines in many cases
Our Pledge
Francis Plourde is committed to supporting responsible gaming. We do not target vulnerable individuals, we provide clear information about odds and risks, and we maintain strict age verification procedures. If you believe you have a problem with gambling, we encourage you to take advantage of the resources and tools available to you.
Play responsibly. Enjoy the entertainment. Know when to stop.