Westwood YMCA Beach Closed, High Bacteria Count

UPDATE, JULY 4, 9:26 A.M.: The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) recommends reopening Westwood YMCA  Beach in Coventry for swimming because bacteria counts have returned to safe levels.

COVENTRY — The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) recommends closing Westwood YMCA beach in Coventry for swimming because of high bacteria levels.

According to the RI Department of Health website, beach closures are based on the concentration of Enterocci bacteria in beach water samples is measured in cfu/100ml (colony forming units per 100 milliliters). Beach closures are based on results of more than 60 cfu/100 ml in salt water and in fresh water.

RIDOH will continue to monitor and review beach water quality regularly to ensure safe bathing throughout the summer. The status of a beach may change as new data become available. The most up-to-date beach information is available through a recorded message on RIDOH’s beaches telephone line (401-222-2751).

To check the status of beaches, use the Beach Viewer map. This map also reflects the most up-to-date information on water quality status at licensed beaches in Rhode Island.

COVID-19, the beach, and you

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has made this beach season unique. The beach experience will be different for visitors than in previous years. RIDOH strongly recommends that whether in the sand or the waves, beachgoers follow physical distancing guidelines, keeping a minimum distance of six feet from people outside their household or stable group.

While at the beach this summer, it is recommended that you wear a face covering in any crowded area (for example, the bathroom, concessions areas, or parking lots during busy times)

Face coverings are not required when you are easily, continuously, and measurably at least six feet from others. Face coverings should not be worn while swimming or playing in the water.