The South African burn society is dedicated to the prevention of burn injury, the promotion of comprehensive burn care and the development of research in the field. We will be responsible for setting and maintaining the highest clinical and ethical standards. This will be achieved by development of best clinical guidelines for both practical application as well as advice for policy makers and funders. Further regular meetings and congresses for the exchange of knowledge and ideas and fostering of professional relations with other societies and paramedical fields will facilitate this.