​​

Our Story, Our Mission, and Our Evolution

​

BTG Communications began in 2013, originally founded as S.H.T.F.L.I (Shit Hits The Fan Long Island) by a small group of friends determined to build a reliable backup communication system after Hurricane Sandy devastated traditional infrastructure. Early attempts with CB radio proved insufficient, and Amateur Radio—while capable—required individual licensing and depended on inconsistent repeater coverage across Long Island.

Through extensive research, the group discovered GMRS, a service offering wide-area coverage, repeater capability, and family-inclusive licensing. It was the perfect match for their goal: a dependable, accessible communication network built for families, friends, and community preparedness.

​​

From One Idea to the Largest GMRS System on Long Island

Since those early days, BTG has expanded into a multi-site, professionally engineered repeater network, operating from:

• Plainview (Nassau County)

• Selden (Central Suffolk)

• Southampton (Eastern Long Island)

All three locations operate on commercial towers with full generator backup, providing island-wide service that reaches into Manhattan and surrounding areas. Today, BTG stands as the largest GMRS repeater system on Long Island — and one of the largest in the tri-state area.

​​

Introducing BTG’s New Digital Radio System

As the FCC’s reinterpretation of GMRS rules eliminated the ability to link GMRS repeaters, BTG adapted and expanded by launching a dedicated DMR system for members.

This system provides:

• Linked coverage from Long Island into New York City

• Clear digital audio quality

• Dedicated talkgroups

• A modern, resilient backup communications platform

• No license requirement for BTG members to use the DMR system

The digital network is designed for:

• Families

• Friends

• Hobbyists

• Community groups

• Emergency readiness

• Daily communication practice

And unlike many organizations, BTG welcomes rag-chew, hobby chat, and casual conversation. Regular on-air activity keeps members comfortable using their radios and strengthens community engagement.

​​

Built on Family. Built for Community. Built to Be Ready.

As a family-focused organization, BTG provides support in every area of communications:

• Radio purchases and guidance

• Custom programming

• Equipment setup

• Mobile and base station setup assistance 

• How-to videos and educational resources

Everything BTG does is grounded in one core lesson learned from Hurricane Sandy:

“By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” — Benjamin Franklin

BTG exists to ensure that when disaster strikes or infrastructure fails, our members stay connected — not just to information, but to each other.

​​

Be Part of a Network with Purpose

Join BTG Communications and take advantage of:

• The largest GMRS network on Long Island

• A fully linked DMR system

• Professional-grade coverage from "Manhattan to Montauk"

• A friendly, active community

• Support for both new and experienced radio users

Whether you're preparing for emergencies, exploring radio as a hobby, or staying connected with friends and family, BTG gives you a system you can rely on — every day, in every situation.