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Ethylene Glycol
The main ingredient in most antifreeze is ethylene glycol (EG), a fatal toxin. It works by changing into oxalic acid in the body, which enters the kidneys and crystallizes, causing death. Its symptoms are weakness, nausea, convulsions, tremors, lack of coordination, excessive thirst and urination, rapid heart rate and paralysis. The treatment is ethyl alcohol given intravenously; it prevents the EG from turning into acid. Propylene glycol-based antifreeze, on the other hand, is not toxic.
Animals
According to the U.S. Humane Society, tens of thousands of animals die every year as a result of EG poisoning. This includes domestic pets and wildlife. They may seek it out in the trash, lick up spills or clean it off their fur. One tsp. will kill a cat and as little as 2 oz. can kill a dog. Death follows within hours, so if you think your pet may have ingested antifreeze, take it to the vet immediately.
Children
Small children may consume EG-based antifreeze for the same reason that pets do: because they are curious and it tastes good. At the least they will get violently sick from it; 2 tbsp. is considered hazardous. Keep all antifreeze in clearly labeled containers out of reach. Clean up any spills immediately and wash the area carefully with water. In addition to EG, spent antifreeze can contain metals it's picked up in the engine, like copper, zinc and lead.
Disposal
Do not throw antifreeze away in the regular trash, especially not as a liquid, since it can leak. Clean spills using absorbent materials such as kitty litter and newspapers; those you can throw away, once bagged. Give unused antifreeze away to a friend, since it never goes bad. Recycle used antifreeze, even the nontoxic propylene glycol variety, through a local garage or as a part of your city's hazardous waste disposal program. Do not flush it down the toilet because it can interfere with your local water treatment systems, and do not pour it out because it can poison both soil and water.