Main power to the fuse panel is controlled with cartridge fuses that simply pull out to disconnect.
Branch circuits are controlled with fuses having threaded sockets into which the fuses will be screwed. These large threaded sockets look like light bulb sockets and are called Edison sockets. They are named after Thomas Edison who, like everything else we take for granted, invented them.
The types of fuses that go into these sockets however are several. For detailed information on types of fuses please see Your Home Fuse Box and Fuses 101.
To disconnect power to a branch fused circuit, you unscrew and remove the fuse controlling the circuit with which yo are working.
Since you will not be able to use an electronic circuit you should use an inexpensive neon circuit tester to test the switch or outlet terminals and make sure that the power has been shut off.
