When one hears the word casino, images of bright lights and big money spring to mind. From the Vegas strip to tiny mountain towns whose 19th century Wild West buildings house slot machines and poker tables, casinos can be found all over the United States. These places offer gamblers the chance to try their hand at Lady Luck, and leave with (hopefully) a bigger wad of cash than they came in with.
While the majority of casino patrons are just passing through, some may become addicted to gambling. These people generate a significant percentage of the profits for the casino, and are known as compulsive gamblers. The cost of treating these people and the loss in productivity due to their gambling habits can often offset any positive economic impact that a casino has on its community.
Whether a casino is large or small, it must maintain a high level of security. Considering the amount of money that is handled in these establishments, both patrons and staff may be tempted to cheat or steal. To avoid these situations, most casinos employ numerous methods of security, including cameras and rules of conduct.
Casinos are also known for their customer service and the perks that they offer to encourage patrons to spend more time in their facilities. For instance, in the 1970s Las Vegas casinos were famous for offering discounted travel packages, cheap buffets, and free show tickets. These perks were meant to fill the casino with people and maximize revenue.