THE first total fire ban of the new fire season has been declared for the Mallee on Thursday.

The Country Fire Authority (CFA) issued the ban due to expected hot conditions, a chance of a thunderstorm, little or no chance of overnight rain and expected winds of up to 30km/h.

A maximum temperature of 38 degrees in Mildura was being forecast by the Bureau of Meteorology.

CFA chief officer Steve Warrington urged residents in the Mallee region to prepare for the hot weather and have their fire plan ready to go.

"We are asking all Victorians to be prepared for a long, hot summer," Mr Warrington said.

"Residents across the Mallee region must familiarise themselves with the total fire ban conditions and understand that it is illegal to light a fire or allow a fire to remain lit in the open air during a total fire ban.

"People need to be aware of the increased fire danger and ensure your fire plan covers all possible contingencies."

On a total fire ban day, no fire can be lit in the open air or be allowed to remain alight from 12.01am to 11.59pm.

Strict rules also applied to the operation of farm machinery, chainsaws and lawn mowers.

More information can be found on the Can I or Can't I page on the CFA website.