Keep your blades sharp, as a sharp blade grabs the ice better than a dull one. When you have your skates sharpened, be sure to have it done by a professional with experience sharpening skates. There have been cases where picks have been lost during a sharpening. After each wearing, blades should be dried with a cloth and stored with soft guards. This will help soak up any excess moisture remaining on your blades after they have been wiped and warmed up.

Another recommendation is to air them once at home by uncovering the blade and setting upside down. Skate guards should be worn when walking to and from the ice. Skate guards are necessary because they protect the edges of the blade, prolong the life of the skates and are a safety factor when walking on various surfaces. Permanent damage can be done to a blade by walking on concrete without guards.
Hard guards should be washed occasionally as grit builds up inside and can cause nicks in your blades. The dishwasher works great for this, or soaking in sink of soap (just ensure adequate drying time before putting back on skates).

Retailers for Skate Sharpening:

SKATERS EDGE
Unit #10-145 Schoolhouse St.
Coquitlam, BC
(604)521-5550