Casino owners hope to hit jackpot with hurricane defences

2007-06-04 17:32:07

Mississippi's casino owners are preparing for any problematic weather that might get thrown their way, according to reports.

The Sun Herald said that casino operators in the state have met with the Mississippi Gaming Commission, local government officials and emergency personnel to ensure they are fully prepared in case of a troublesome hurricane season.

During an evacuation as a result of a hurricane, there has never been a casualty at the region's casinos, a record the operators are keen to ensure remains intact.

The IP Casino, which hosted the meeting, has prepared itself for another potential Hurricane Katrina by installing shutters that can withstand wind up to 200 mph, according to the newspaper.

After advice from the National Weather Service in Slidell and National Hurricane Center, the Mississippi Gaming Commission makes the decision on whether the casinos need to close when a hurricane occurs.

Hurricane Katrina was one of the strongest hurricanes ever recorded in the United States when it touched land in August 2005.


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