RALEIGH—The movie theater shooting in Colorado during a showing of The Dark Knight Rises in which at least 12 people were killed has many thinking about their security in public places where large crowds gather.

While some movie theaters have called for increased security with large crowds expected through the weekend, Authorities say there is really no way to predict where such a tragic incident could happen. From airports to sporting events when hundreds of people gather in one spot so too do the authorities.

However movie theaters do not normally generate extra security.

"I would not expect to have to go through security. It's a sad thought to think that might be the case at some point," said Raleigh resident Clarence Lovett.

Personal safety was a topic of conversation on Friday. At the Imax theater uniformed officers were present as people lined up for the 1 p.m. showing of The Dark Knight Rises.

"It's easy to look at something like this and think well this is pattern but I mean it's only happened once and if it does happen again it's in my opinion it's going to be because of copycats not because it's a particularly dangerous place," said Gainesville, Fla. resident Laura Crysel.

Authorities say they have fielded some requests for increased security at movie theaters this weekend. However when it comes to the personal safety of dealing with crowds in movie theaters or in malls, there is only so much they can do.

"There are so many variables. Times of day, private security versus sworn officers. We would just recommend common sense and being generally alert and aware of your surroundings," said Capt. Patrick Niemann of the Raleigh Police Department.

There are surroundings that some think are still safe regardless of what security measures are in place.

"You're more likely to get hurt driving somewhere at a midnight showing. It's a game of odds whenever you do anything in life at all," said North Wilksboro resident Kirk Gunton.

Police officials say added security is at the discretion of theater owners.