Wikipedia
Vigipirate
Vigipirate is France's national security alert system. Created in 1978 by President Valéry Giscard d'Estaing, it has since been updated three times: in 1995 (following a terror bombing campaign), 2000 and 2004
Until 2014 the system defined four levels of threats represented by five colors: white, yellow, orange, red, scarlet. The levels called for specific security measures, including increased police or police/military mixed patrols in subways, train stations and other vulnerable locations.
In February 2014 the levels were simplified to 'vigilance' and 'attack alert'.
"Vigipirate" is a portmanteau of "vigilance" (vigilance) or "vigie" (watchtower) and "pirate" ( pirate).