Under Regulation 86(1), when must a firearm and ammunition be stored in a safe?

• A. When a firearm is not under the direct personal and physical control of its licence holder.
• B. When it is under direct personal control.
• C. Only when the firearm is in transit.
• D. Never.

Answer: (A)

Safekeeping of firearms is required whenever you don’t have direct personal and physical control. Direct control means you are physically holding or can immediately access the firearm with the intent to use it. If you set the weapon down, leave it, or otherwise aren’t in a position to access it instantly, you must store both the firearm and ammunition in a locked, secure container such as a safe. This rule is about preventing unauthorized access and theft by ensuring the weapon isn’t readily accessible when you’re not in immediate control. It isn’t limited to transit, and it isn’t correct to say it’s never required; nor is it limited to just when you’re traveling.