Road and fire warnings on Xmas eve

Tasmanian drivers beware: statistics show Christmas Eve afternoon is the most likely time to be involved in a road smash during the festive season.

Police are calling for motorists to take extra care during the busy holiday period, highlighting that Christmas Eve is traditionally a high accident period.

"The most likely time for a crash to occur during the Christmas and New Year period is on Christmas Eve between midday and 8pm," Tasmania Police said in a statement, based on data from over the past five years.

Also on Thursday authorities will decide whether to impose a total fire ban for Christmas day, when temperatures are forecast to reach 36C in some parts of Tasmania.

The Tasmania Fire Service expects to make a decision on the ban by 4pm.