Hanging on to your poker chips: What to do when you've won

By Fabian Marquez

We all have good days and bad days at the game of poker. Still, if you're not at least a little bit careful, an extremely good day where you find yourself amassing entire poker chip sets can turn into a gigantic disappointment or, worse, a disastrous reversal that might wind up costing you more than the worst cold streak. Below are two tips for protecting your winnings should you hit the mother lode.

Watch Out for Casino Lowlifes
The vast majority of people who frequent card clubs are as law abiding as anyone. Nevertheless, the presence of large sums of money can draw questionable characters. Robbers have been known to single out large winners after they've cashed in an enormous amount in poker chips. If you've just made a big score, perhaps through an incredible hot streak, or perhaps you've hit one of the "bad beat" jackpots many card clubs have, and you're forced to carry a truly large amount of cash, don't be afraid to be a bit extra careful. Attentive employees may ask you if you'd like security to escort you to your car or cab, and you should definitely take them up on it. However, if they don't, and your winnings have caused an obvious scene, don't be afraid to request some help from the casino security staff. After all, that's what they are there for.

Don't Be Your Own Worst Enemy
Making a very large score at poker can turn ordinarily sensible people into, very literally, gambling fools. If you've mainly played poker at home with decks that have seen better days and old, cheap poker chip sets no upscale card club would touch, suddenly making thousands of dollars in a casino or online on a series of hands can make you feel infallible. The bad news is that, big score or not, you are still the same fallible human being you were when you walked into the card club or went online. Don't suddenly make large and reckless bets. In fact, one of the best favors you can do for yourself after a really big win is to take a break and actually enjoy your victory. Maybe you should splurge with a superb meal at your favorite gourmet restaurant for you and someone special. It might come as a shock after a big win, but there's more to life than poker.

 

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