Chicago, IL -- Two recent nightclub fires have left Americans leery of the nightlife. Now comes word that theaters and multiplexes are just as big a risk for fires.

Journalist Anthony P. Hatch looked at the current safety status of U.S. theaters while researching a book on a historical Chicago theater fire -- and he found some troubling factors.

For starters, ushers aren't trained in fire drills and often stand in the lobby during performances, where they wouldn't be able to help should disaster strike.

In addition, many exits are poorly marked or unable to handle capacity crowds.

Hatch fears another fiery tragedy could happen if theater and movie house owners don't increase their safety standards pronto.

His suggestion: Install sprinklers, which are "like having a fireman with a hose every 10 feet."

Hatch's book, "Tinder Box: The Iroquois Theatre Disaster 1903" (Academy Chicago Publishers) is in stores now.

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