PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) _ Rhode Island health officials have closed three beaches to swimming because of high bacteria counts in the water.

The state Department of Health on Wednesday recommended the closure of Atlantic Beach Club in Middletown, Easton’s Beach in Newport and North Kingstown Town Beach in North Kingstown.

Health officials say they will monitor the water quality and reopen the beaches once bacteria levels are safe.

The state regularly monitors water quality at beaches throughout the summer months to ensure safe conditions for swimmers.