Issue link: https://read.uberflip.com/i/797481
50 / MARCH.APRIL.2017 USICERINKS.COM TO MANY RINK MANAGERS, the end of the season can be the happiest time of the year. Just one more project separates a rink operator from his or her best night's sleep since start-up: ice removal. It can be a daunting task and there's a lot that goes into it. But with a few easy tips and some simple steps you can help ensure an efficient and safe ice removal process— and celebrate another successful year. PREPPING FOR "ICE-OUT" The week leading up to your ice removal, be sure to have your resurfacer drivers make heavier cuts to slowly bring down your sheet's thickness. Be careful not to get to an unsafe thickness for your last few events, so know who will be using your ice. For a concrete slab, you can minimize wear and tear on your resurfacer by bringing in skid loaders or utility vehicles with plow attachments. The goal is to break the bond with the slab while minimizing the water on the surface. This can take 12 to 24 hours after shutdown, depending on temperatures in your building. If you can time it right, the skid loaders can remove large chucks of ice in a fairly quick amount of time. Do not just open the doors and walk away! 1. Remove any reusable in-ice logos before the skid loaders come out. 2. Warn your equipment operators that wet concrete is almost as slippery as ice. 3. Monitor your air quality during this entire process. 4. Consider removing a section of boards to help make the ice removal process easier. 5. If you are plowing the ice out of your resurfacer gate, remove the gate threshold. Time for Ice Out! Removing your ice can be daunting, but simplified with a few easy steps PHOTOS: COURTESY OF CRAIG PETERSEN HOW To Taking the Ice Out (Part 1) by CRAIG PETERSEN, CIRM