You need to light it with a match or lighter using tongs, then place it in a heat-resistant dish filled with a layer of sand, allowing it to glow red hot before placing your incense on top; always ensure proper ventilation when burning charcoal indoors as it produces carbon monoxide. 
 
Key steps:
Use tongs: Always handle the charcoal with tongs to avoid burning your fingers. 
Light the edge: Use a match or lighter to ignite the edge of the charcoal. 
Sand base: Place the lit charcoal in a heatproof dish with a layer of sand to provide a stable base and prevent damage to the surface. 
Monitor heat: Wait until the charcoal is glowing red hot before adding incense. 
Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation when burning charcoal indoors.