You should have a routine which you do not vary from when it comes to set up of a new system and in which you are using a source as volume control. You should always set the volume to minimum on all components. Some amps also have output controls, so they also would be set to minimum. Always work from ground zero toward your listening level. It's the only way to be absolutely sure you will not blow up something.
Also, every single time I establish a new rig I always have my hand on the remote's stop button when first beginning play. No exceptions. I have set up some rigs a dozen times, but still hold the remote's stop button for the source. Why? Because we all make boneheaded mistakes and we don't want that one moment of thoughtlessness to be our undoing.
No exceptions: Check cabling two or three times. Remote in hand with finger on stop button.
I also have my hand on the power button when firing up amps, just in case. It's not a perfect world and preparedness to act can one day save a lot of pain. :)