If you can't identify the circuit, then throw the main breaker. If that doesn't deenergize the circuit then look for another box somewhere possibly upstairs. DO NOT try any (old and dead) electrician's trick as it can kill you and burn your house down. A breaker can take up to 3 times its amp loading before releasing and the resulting arc can jump 3 feet killing you and starting a fire. It can also arc through somewhere else causing a fire. If you aren't comfortable around electricity then hire an electrician. Remembering that they are hot wires, I change them all the time in a live circuit. Use a rubber handled screwdriver and pliers if needed. Only move one wire at a time from the old switch to new and be careful not to let the hot wires touch anything. Wear rubber shoes, don't stand in water, don't touch the bare wire, etc.
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