(Olympia, WA)  --  New safety rules will take effect for railroads across Washington next month, as the state attempts to shore up defenses against risks relating to the growing number of oil trains throughout the state.  Rules adopted earlier this month by the state Utilities and Transportation Commission include requiring warning signs to be installed at railroad crossings on private property.  Railroad companies will also be required to show their financial means to pay for a "reasonable" worst-case accident.  Large-population cities will also be able to get state assistance in paying for railroad-track inspections.