A Pizza Fraternity

Each month, Pizza Today strives to provide you with scores of tips and helpful insight that you can use to build your business. But we can’t cover every topic in every issue — our page count is finite! When you have a question or problem that’s burning a hole in your mind, get it answered immediately on the Pizza Today Bulletin Boards. Simply log on to PizzaToday.com and look for the “Bulletin Boards” tab under the “News & Views” heading on the navigation bar. Registration takes just a moment and then you’re ready to go. And remember, what comes around goes around. Be sure to answer questions as well as ask them.

Give it a

Lift If you use a deck oven, you might want to consider placing a screen underneath your pan when baking a deep-dish pizza. While the extra step may seem unnecessary at first, the screen works to lift the pan off the stone and reduces the possibility of you burning the bottom of your pizza. Remember, these deep-dish pies bake for a long time, often around 45 minutes.

Closing Time

While not an everyday occurrence (thankfully), late-night robberies are a restaurant-industry risk. Here are some steps you should be taking to keep your closing employees safe:

? Never have an employee close alone

? Use bright exterior lights

? Purchase an alarm system

? Utilize convex mirrors

? Arrange equipment and furniture in such a manner to prevent entrapment

? Use a drop safe

? Purchase video surveillance equipment

? Form a good relationship with local police.

Pest Prevention

Spring and summer means outdoor pests are looking to find a way in, and your protein supply (think fl our, more specifically) is a welcome mat for them. The following measures can help you overcome your battle with insects in and around your restaurant.

? Clean and sanitize food prep surfaces and floors

? Keep food in covered containers

? Clean stove and grill hoods and exhaust system

? Cover garbage receptacles and keep outdoor garbage receptacles away from the building

? Fix leaks in faucets and roofs

? Keep drains and gutters clean

? Use plastic bags for wet garbage

? Direct condensation from air conditioning away from the building

? Seal any cracks or openings near windows, doors, vents, pipes, etc.

? Inspect deliveries from suppliers

? Install air curtains on exterior doors

? Get rid of excess cardboard; don’t store supplies in cardboard shipping containers.