Patio Dining: Prep to Please

As soon as the temperature gets above 60, you’ll have customers lined up to enjoy eating and drinking in the fresh air. If you have an outdoor dining area, or if you’re considering one, use this checklist to make sure you’re prepared:

• Are awnings and umbrellas in place to protect guests from direct sunlight?
• Do you have an emergency plan to care for your customers during a sudden rain shower? Be sure it’s in writing and your staff is prepared to react in an instant.
• Are your tables, chairs and utensils wind-proof? Use napkin roll-ups so strong winds won’t blow utensils away and anchor furniture with sandbags or metal weights.
• Are your electrical outlets waterproof? Make sure you have enough waterproof outlets to accommodate your outdoor POS systems, outdoor buffets, chafing dishes and lighting sources.

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