WITH the Met Office issuing extreme heat weather warnings, some schools in Basingstoke have made the decision to close their doors until the temperature cools.

When the Gazette asked readers on Facebook whether they think that schools and businesses should close until the heat subsides, the reaction was mixed.

Basingstoke Gazette: We asked members of the public if schools and businesses should close due to the heat.We asked members of the public if schools and businesses should close due to the heat.

Andrea Dancer expressed her belief that schools and businesses should stay open.

She wrote: “No, children are in the shade and not direct heat, and education is needed.”

READ MORE: LIVE: Extreme heat continues in Hampshire - school closures, health warnings and advice

Andrea expressed a similar belief towards businesses, saying: “They have aircons in most buildings, and the economy is in such a state we need to work.

“We were able to work during a pandemic that is still in our lives and a few days of heat is nothing in comparison.”

Nikki Miller agreed, saying: “No, they shouldn’t (close), just work a little slower and drink lots.

“Why does everything have to close in this country because of the weather?”

Andy Silver took the middle ground, saying: “Schools should close before the heat starts, usually around 1pm.”

Basingstoke Gazette: The Met Office has issued both amber and red weather warnings due to the heat. Credit: The Met Office.The Met Office has issued both amber and red weather warnings due to the heat. Credit: The Met Office.

Carole Valler was in favour of closing schools, writing: “It’s only four days until the end of term, so why not close schools?”

Darren Ball was also against closing businesses, commenting that if the automotive repair shop closes it “won’t be earning.”

Darren went on to suggest a variety of changes that companies could try to make things easier for those working in the heat.

Darren suggested: “Reduce workload and expectations of how quickly we work.

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“Provide chilled drinks, water and cold snacks (ice creams and lollies) and personal fans as well as fans for the whole area.

“Allow staff to go to a cool down area (air-conditioned room/canteen) at any point to allow to cool down and get refreshments.”

Martin and Co real estate agents said that they had remained open on Monday, July 18, but “had some staff at home as rumours of trains not running.”

Laura Parkinson shared her belief that, since emergency services cannot shut due to the heat, businesses should also stay open out of solidarity.

She wrote: “Emergency services can’t, so why should elsewhere shut?

“I expect they are all melting too in this heat, but they have to carry on.”

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