Cut the power to the panel before opening the box to wire the circuit
and have someone stand a few feet away from you with a flashlight so
you can see what you are doing. And if something should happen to you
they can call 911. No kidding...

You're not kidding?
With the main off, how could he get a shock?
Why should he get a shock even with the main on?
Have you ever heard of anyone getting a shock who had to call 911?
Geez