Bismarck, ND - The North Dakota Department of Emergency Services (NDDES) advises homeowners to make sure sump pumps are working. With the spring melt hitting full steam in many areas of the state, it is important to test pumps now.
"Sump pumps are the first line of defense to keep your basement dry," said Greg Wilz, Deputy Director of NDDES. "The easiest thing to do is to pour several buckets of water into your sump to make sure your pump turns on."
If the pump does not turn on, check the electrical connection, troubleshoot the pump according to the manufacturer's instructions, or call a plumber.
People without sump pumps who are worried about flooded basements should consider a skimmer pump which works in water around a half an inch deep. They can be used with a regular garden hose to pump water out and away from a home's foundation.
