In this case bigger is better. The large diameter wheels clear gaps in concrete or pavement that would hang up a skate wheel. The kick scooter also handles well in gravel and small terrain areas. Ridden under normal conditions, however, the kick scooter is as safe as your bike or skateboard. Avoid cars and wear a helmet or other safety gear to minimize the risk of injury.
Many kick scooter have a brake like a bicycle brake.
Many riders also find it convenient to use their shoe to brake on the rear wheel. You can use these techniques or, if you aren't going too fast, simply step off. Most people just carry the scooter with them. Some manufacturers make small scooter weighing just a bit more than a laptop computer and which folds down in about 5 seconds. If you want to leave it somewhere you can lock it using a U-lock or cable lock.