A look back for recent BFD chief

Craig Yanantuono, a Baldwin native and 14-year Baldwin Fire Department member, completed his one-year term as department chief on Dec. 31. The BFD responded to more than 2,000 calls in 2014, so the Herald recently caught up with Yanantuono to find out how his year went and what’s in store for his future with the department.

Herald: How did your year as chief go?
Craig Yanantuono: It went well. As with anything there are hurdles to overcome, but all in all, it was a successful year. My experience has been extremely fulfilling. I’ve made a lot of new friends, both in town and among our neighboring departments. Most importantly, I have a deeper respect for my friends and neighbors, their property and our beautiful town after serving as a community leader.

H: What did you learn from the position that you didn’t know going in?
CY: It takes time to be a chief, a lot of time. I, of course, was prepared for responsibility, however, the burden that has been placed on the chief’s office over the past 10, 20 or 30 years with ever-changing strategies, equipment, requirements and certifications has made this a full-time job. Ensuring all members comply with internal and governmental regulations, documenting activities, being present for public events, continuous meetings and, of course, responding to alarms takes a lot of time. I am blessed that my wife, Stephanie is understanding and has encouraged me to continue to do the best job I could.

H: What was the oddest or most interesting call you responded to this year?
CY: I hate to use the word “standard” but, for lack of a better term, many of the calls this year have been just that. Personally, I don’t think we’ll see anything as crazy as Hurricane Sandy for quite a while.

H: Do any calls or fires especially stand out from the last year? Good or bad.