To ensure the safety of its patrons, the Casino is equipped with elaborate surveillance systems. Every table, doorway, and window is watched by cameras. The video feeds of each area are recorded for later review. Security measures also include rules regarding the playing of card games such as blackjack and roulette. A casino employee is required to keep his or her cards visible at all times while playing. This way, the casino avoids any possible security threat. But how do the casinos ensure the safety of its patrons?
The word casino is derived from the Italian word casa, which means “little house”. While the main activity of a casino is gambling, many of them include entertainment options, including restaurants, shopping malls, and live entertainment. Casinos are often located near tourist attractions or are part of larger resorts. Although casinos can range in size and scope, they all share a common theme: entertainment. The modern casino image is a Vegas-style gambling resort, but the concept dates back to the 17th century. The first known casino was opened in Baden, Switzerland in 1765.
While the gangsters may have originally controlled casinos, today, hotel chains and real estate investors have more money to operate them. Hotel companies and Donald Trump own several casinos. Most casinos also run club-like comp programs, where members can exchange points for free or discounted slot play, meals, and drinks, or discounted tickets to concerts and shows. In addition to attracting customers, these programs serve as valuable marketing tools for the casinos. They develop patron databases, which are invaluable for advertising and trend-following.