His daughter, Melissa Pantelis, called 911, then sprawled on the grass and grabbed his hand.
Eddie Matos Jr. rushed to help - and fell partway in himself.
But he managed to drag his father out, with help from his sister and a passing friend.
Assistant Fire Chief John Giammarino says the family's quick action averted a tragedy. The fire official says methane gas from the cesspool could have been deadly.