This book examines the role of improvisation in emergency response policies. Focusing on the Covid-19 pandemic in Italy, it demonstrates how improvisation can play a positive and productive role in emergency management. As well as offering one of the first systematic studies of policy responses to the pandemic in Italy - which was affected more than any other European country during the first wave of infection - it also throws light on the emotional, cognitive and behavioural strategies of the actors involved in emergency responses. These findings have important implications for emergency management around the world, including crises such as natural disasters, energy blackouts and nuclear accidents. The book will appeal to all those interested in public policy, public administration, emergency management and behavioural science.