One thing that I like about the alcohol stoves/heater in a cans is that they will light even with a spark if the alcohol is warm enough. I have matches and I have flint and steel type tools also available. Rather than waste a bunch of matches trying to get something lit, I can start the alcohol can with a spark and then using that flame, I can light candles or start a wood fire or anything else. We have even used a stick, put it to the flame and started our propane stove or lantern.