Theater Security Gets Another Look After Batman

In light of the tragic event in Auburn, Colo., at the midnight premiere of Batman: The Dark Knight Rises, concerns about public safety at movie theaters have increased nationwide.

CNN has done a nationwide survey of theater chains in major cities, and reports many of them are upping their police presence, at least for the time being.

The Batman movie is expected to gross $200 million this weekend

Santa Rosa Entertainment Group, which runs in Healdsburg and movie theaters in Petaluma and Santa Rosa, issued a statement, forwarded by Mark Tietsort.

The statement reads in part:

"The safety of our employees and patrons is, and will continue to be a high priority for us as a company, and these priorities are shared among all of the members and staff of the National Association of Theater Owners (NATO). 

"We have been contact with our Theater Managers, and are working with local Law enforcement agencies to address concerns and response to this current event”. 

Down in San Rafael, Patch reports that some local theaters in Marin County are increasing security at theaters screening the film

"We'll have heavier patrols, including officers on foot," police spokesman Charly Taylor told the Patch. 

AMC theaters announced that staff will not permit anyone in the theater wearing a mask or possessing fake weapons.

"Local law enforcement agencies, our landlords and their and our local security teams are stepping up nationwide to ensure we provide the safest environment possible for our guests," AMC said in a Facebook post.

What do you think? Do you feel safer in theaters? Tell us in the comments