Scrub the inside of the hurricane lamp to make sure it is as clean as possible. Don't insert the candle until you have cleaned and dried the lamp. A soap and water solution and a dry towel should be sufficient.
Place the lamp and candle in a safe location. The ideal place should be well-ventilated and protected from vents, drafts or other strong air currents. Strong irregular air flow can disturb the candle's flame and deposit more soot on the lamp.
Light the candle carefully. Use a long match or a long-nosed kitchen lighter to reach into the lamp and light the candle. Once you've lit it, slowly withdraw the match or lighter, taking care not to scorch the edges of the hurricane lamp.