Tasmanians wanting to cook their Christmas lunch using an open fire, or who are considering a celebratory campfire or bonfire, should make other plans.
Tasmania Fire Service chief Jeremy Smith said several people ignored last weekend's total fire ban and a better effort is needed on Friday when temperatures at some centres are set to hit 36C.
"We are planning on the possibility of a total fire ban on Friday," he told reporters on Wednesday.
"The weather indicators are pushing toward that, particularly in the southern part of the state."
A final decision will be made by 4pm Thursday, with a ban meaning no open fires or hot-rock BBQs.
"Unfortunately, (during) the total fire ban over the weekend we did have a number of bonfires and campfires that were lit.
"We've been following those up and making sure people are aware there are severe penalties if fires are lit on total fire bans."
None of those fires got out of control but Mr Smith said they can spark unnecessary call outs for firies and on Friday crews will already be busy.
"We do have a number of stove fires: people are enjoying Christmas day and unwrapping presents, enjoying the social side of it, but unfortunately they may forget to check the stove," he said of the December 25 workload.
Large parts of Tasmania are already dry and Mr Smith said forecast 30C-plus temperatures, northerly winds and decreasing humidity on Friday make for fire-prone conditions.
The state's Parks and Wildlife Service will consider closing some of its walking trails for the safety of users if the fire ban is imposed.
Hobart is due to reach 32C on Friday, and if that temperature is realised it will be the second hottest Christmas day on record for the capital, after 1945's 34.3C.
