With all the security personnel and security cameras in plain view, it is easy for women gamblers to be lulled into feeling safe. However, as they would in any other situation, women need to exercise caution while gambling.

Avoiding Theft

Women will lose enough money simply by gambling, so it is doubly important to make sure currency and credit cards are well protected. Purses should be kept on laps, with straps crossed over the body if possible. Purses and other personal items should never be placed on trays, countertops, or the floor. A lot of women like wearing fanny packs because they are easier to carry than a purse (plus many women think they are better at preventing theft). However, the straps can be easily cut. Or, if the patron is engrossed in play, contents can be readily taken from the pack (if it is worn behind the body) or the snaps can be quickly unhooked and pulled away (if the pack is resting in the front).

Trust Your Intuition

There is a lot to be said for a women’s intuition, and it should always be trusted if safety is at stake. If a situation feels uncomfortable, even if there is no visible reason for the discomfort, walk away. Women are most vulnerable in areas like rest rooms, where there are no security cameras, and elevators, where it is easy to become trapped. If at all possible women should not go to these areas alone. If she must, she should at least make sure there are plenty of other people around, and never get on an elevator with just one other person.

General safety precautions practiced in any normal situation should be practiced while visiting the casinos. If visiting a town like Las Vegas or Atlantic City, go in pairs or groups. Always know where members of your party are so they can be easily found in an emergency.

Be Aware of Surroundings

It is easy to become overwhelmed in a casino, especially the first visit. However, when too caught up in the sights and sounds of a place, it means paying less attention to other things happening. To avoid this, make plans in advance, rather than trying to see and do everything at once and making decisions on the fly. In other words, try not to behave like a tourist. Most importantly, keep alcohol consumption to a minimum. Women are most vulnerable while under the influence of alcohol, and this is when their safety is most compromised.

Practicing safety precautions will guarantee that the only losses will come from gambling.