My gas water heater will not ignite. Can I light the pilot with a match?

Better to try using fireplace matches, a barbecue igniter, or even a small propane torch...something with length. If that fails to light your pilot then, most likely, the THERMOCOUPLE is defective and will need to be replaced. This is usually a quick job, but time to fix will depend on the exact model and age of your water heater!

Mark