When must a firearm and ammunition be stored in a safe according to regulations?

The requirement to store a firearm and ammunition in a safe when the firearm is not under the direct control of its license holder emphasizes the importance of safety and responsibility in gun ownership. This regulation is designed to prevent unauthorized access to firearms, especially by children or individuals who are not legally permitted to handle them.

Direct control implies that the owner is able to reach or utilize the firearm immediately. When a firearm is not in the possession of the owner or is left unattended without supervision, it increases the risk of accidents, theft, or misuse. Thus, storing firearms and ammunition in a safe when they are not directly controlled by the license holder ensures that they are secured and minimizes the opportunity for harm or legal issues that may arise from unauthorized access.

The other options, while they have their contexts, do not encapsulate the comprehensive need for safety when the firearm is not in control of the owner, which is the core reason for this regulation.