I don't think the country will explode if we scrap leaving. Brexiteers deep down know they've winged it this far, they fear a second referendum and know they got a lot of people along for the ride. The last 3 years has been finding out what the EU is , the four freedoms and how it's setup/intertwined, for politicians let alone ordinary people.
To keep the democracy theme and lessen any blow, if there's an extension I'd cut to the chase and ask for a leave no deal - remain full member vote. Four months to get the info out there. I'm not sure kicking this WA tin can down the road again will lead to anything if EU members allow an extension.