I understand why your flight mode would be activated here, mine definitely would be, too. I feel like if you explained kind of like you did here, and also communicate a plan of action that you will be or have taken to resolve the mistake which should include always keeping the lids closed in the future as to not attract the rats to begin with, you may be alright. Fear of rats is pretty relatable and justified. Those suckers can bite, and cause some very serious issues! Our instincts tell us to avoid them. I sometimes ask my fiance who is usually more well-received than I am to communicate things on my behalf when I'm too overwhelmed to communicate effectively. If you have someone who can help you, you deserve that.

I really hope you can get the rat issue resolved, and if you can't maybe you should move if that's possible. I have lived that, it's really not okay especially for humans like us. Remember to be kind to yourself throughout all of this and forgive yourself. I hope this helps!