Summary The overriding aspects of pre-hospital man­agement of burn trauma are patient stabilisation and the choice of the referral hospital/burn centre, with account being taken of the local situation and transport logistics. Airway stabilisation should be based on likely developments not as a general prophylactic measure. Increased infusion therapy is not generally necessary - infusion rates of 1.000 ml/h in adults or 10 ml/kg b.w./h in children are sufficient in most cases. Special emphasis should be placed on protect­­ing the patient from hypothermia. On admission to the burn centre, all relevant data, in particular the patient´s social background, should be provided - it is difficult or even impossible subsequently to close any gaps. The course of intensive care is initially foreseeable, reflecting a fast-motion septic course, but often attended by additional noxious effects, in particular affecting the airway, breathing and circulation. Circulation management is effected as required, with attention given to the parameters haemoglobin concentration, haematocrit, MAP, diuresis, CVP and central venous sO2. For initial volume replacement, balanced crystalloids are infused. In the presence of manifest capillary leak­age, colloids should be given with great caution. Addition­al gelatine solution is only to be used in patients with threaten­ing hypotension, and catecholamines should also be avoid­­ed as far as possible. If necessary, dobutamine is used to increase cardiac inotropy and cardiac output. Norepi­nephrine is indicated only in patients with significantly reduced SVR. Throughout the course, constant interdisciplinary cooperation is imperative.