A casino (also known as a gambling house or a gaming establishment) is an establishment that provides various forms of gambling. It can be found in cities throughout the world and is often combined with hotels, restaurants, retail shops, cruise ships, and other tourist attractions. Some casinos are also known for their live entertainment, such as stand-up comedy, concerts, and sporting events.
In the United States, casinos are regulated by state law. Some are owned and operated by local governments, while others are private enterprises. Most casinos feature games such as blackjack, roulette, baccarat, poker, craps, and slot machines. Some are open 24 hours a day, while others are limited to certain times of the day.
Security is a major concern at casino facilities. Patrons and staff may be tempted to cheat or steal, either in collusion with one another or independently; thus, most casinos have extensive security measures. The most basic security measure is a series of cameras that monitor all activity inside the casino.
In addition to these cameras, casinos employ a variety of other security techniques. For example, they might install catwalks that allow security personnel to look directly down on the tables from above, and they might require players at card games to keep their hands visible at all times. Additionally, many casinos have special windows that can be triggered by motion sensors to emit bright lights in the presence of suspicious persons. Casinos also use sophisticated software to ensure that all wagers are made fairly.