Zamboni fire shuts down Novi Ice Arena

Press Release From Novi Ice Arena

"NOVI, Michigan, August 9, 2007 - At approximately 7:55 pm on August 8, 2007, the Novi Fire Department responded to report of a fire at the Novi Ice Arena, located at 42400 Arena Drive. An ice resurfacing machine was clearing the ice, when a hydraulic leak ignited. All Novi Ice Arena operations have been suspended.

The incident occurred while the ice was being resurfaced. Players on break and the machine driver witnessed the fire and the arena was smoothly evacuated. A crowd of approximately 150 people, including players, coaches, parents and staff, were in the ice arena at the time of the incident. While the Novi Fire Department was on scene, one of the ice resurfacing machine’s two propane tanks burst. No injuries were reported. The Novi Fire Department extinguished the blaze and began damage assessment immediately.

The City of Novi is working with insurance adjustors and restoration efforts are underway. It is anticipated that the facility will reopen with limited operations (one ice surface) within a week. Updates regarding ice arena operations will be posted regularly on the City of Novi’s website at cityofnovi.org. All inquiries regarding league play and practice times can be directed to the Suburban Sports Group at (248) 478-1600. The City of Novi contracts with the Suburban Sports Group to manage and operate the Novi Ice Arena.

The ice resurfacing machine was purchased in August 2004 for $31,266 (after trade-in). It was most recently inspected and serviced in late July 2007.

The Novi Ice Arena opened in September 1998. This multi-surface facility offers two NHL-regulation sized ice sheets, seating capacities of 750 and 200, heated viewing areas, a pro shop, concessions, skate rental and meeting space. The facility is host to a variety of programs, including the Novi Youth Hockey Association, Skating Club of Novi, Novi High School and Northville High School hockey teams, and adult hockey leagues, as well as open skating and learn to skate programs. The City of Novi also operates a dance studio out of this facility."

Photo From Detroit News

Photo From Detroit News