OSA launches 'SafeBet' campaign

STATE — With the establishment of two casinos in the state, more attention is being paid to the risk of problem gambling. 

To raise awareness, the Maine Office of Substance Abuse has launched a state-wide campaign encouraging responsible gaming.

Called "SafeBet," the program encourages gamers to follow three steps to prevent their gambling from becoming a problem.

"Be Smart – Before you Start" encourages gamers to plan for losses and not to bet more than they can afford; "Know your Limit Stay Within It" advises setting a limit on the amount of time played and money gambled; and "Have Fun Stop When You're Done" reminds people to stop once they reach their time and budget limits.

The program includes information cards, Internet advertising and posters.

The OSA website includes resources to help identify problem gambling and the Office has been encouraging people who "find that gambling is no longer fun," to call 211 for help.

The program was developed by OSA and its partners, including the Bureau of Alcoholic Beverages and Lottery Operations, the Gambling Control Board, and the Healthy Maine Partnerships in Bangor and Oxford County, among others.

Kate Goldberg, who is coordinating "SafeBet" for Healthy Oxford Hills says her office has received some materials from OSA, but the bulk were brought to the Oxford Casino.

"They were very responsive," says Goldberg. "As you can imagine, they have a lot on their plate, but I think we will certainly work more together in the future."

Oxford Casino spokesperson Scott Smith says the casino held a responsible gaming education week in late July and early August – team members raised awareness with customers and attended training sessions.

Smith says the casino is dedicated to encouraging responsible gambling and is interested in working with HOH to address the issue – he says the issue is hugely important for the casino and dismisses the notion that casinos would encourage irresponsible gambling in order to increase profits.

"It's just the opposite," Smith says.

"At the end of the day, when you work with these professionals and you view the compliance side of this and how committed we are to being a safe, healthy place to come have fun ... the responsible gaming part of it is paramount to our success."